The diagnosis of epilepsy may be frightening for parents, but there is no need to be alarmed. Under a doctor’s care, the condition can be treated and controlled just like Santa Monica migraines. While some doctors may require a full course of options, others may focus on one set method; either way, the involvement of a parent or parents make the difference.
Keep Up With Medications
The most important of the steps is to keep up with any medications the child is taking it for epilepsy. These medications need to be given at the scheduled time and will require a parent to anticipate what is needed if the dose is forgotten. When a child is in daycare or school, the appropriate person needs to be aware of the medication needs.
If there is any medical care staff on-site, they can take over the medication duties or remind the child of any upcoming doses. Special care should be given to packing and storing the medications during travel. They should be easy to reach but not too easy for other children to get into them without notice.
Be Aware of Potential Triggers
Triggers can cause a seizure. While each child is not the same, there are some triggers that stand out. One can be flashing lights and photosensitivity in various situations; many series and movies that feature this type of scenes offer a warning in connection to possible triggers. Stress and change in sleep patterns is another trigger; a child has to get enough sleep. Relieve worries to help the child reduce stress. Check out the diet to avoid any foods that can cause problems. Much like allergies, knowing the foods that set off a seizure could be lifesaving.
As a parent knowing the warning signs of a seizure can be a great help. There can be times when the warning signs are not as prominent, while other times it is pronounced. For the eyes, a sign can be staring and quickly blinking; for the body, it’s jerking or being stiff. The child can be confused or unconscious and breathing faster in these situations. If a parent sees any of these signs, then they have to place the child on the floor on their side. Pay special attention to the breathing at these times and see if it is improving or getting worse
Provide Encouragement and Care
Support the child by giving encouragement; try to keep a daily routine for the family to follow. Make sure the entire family knows about the disease and how to help the child remain positive. Offer praise often; have the child get involved with sports and hobbies that will allow them some independence as well as a sense of self-accomplishment.
Parents need to remember to take care of themselves too. While the child needs their support, they also need support too. There are groups that meet to help parents share ideas and experiences. Online there are blogs and networks to offer help and support for the entire family. Go out for some time by yourself; this could be as simple as shopping or going out to lunch or dinner.
Epilepsy will follow a child into adulthood, so it is important to start instilling proper care in their lives at an early age. Parents are the key people in any child’s life and the ability to pass along these steps, as well as values, reaps results throughout their life. The little steps really matter when it comes to their perception of the condition.
