Other Health Impairments:

Epilepsy

Dan Nave

Definition

Causes of Epilepsy

Facts and Statistics

Brain Function

Types of Seizures

What to do during a seizure

Tips

Overview

A disturbance in the electrical activity of the neurons in the brain.

It is a chronic condition of the central nervous system that is characterized by recurrent seizures and convulsions.

Definition

Idiopathic: 80% of all epilepsy remains unexplainable. Heredity seems to be an underlying factor but is controversial.

Acquired: can be traced to birth injuries, brain tumors, lack of oxygen, or injuries to the brain.

Etiology (cause and origins of epilepsy)

Epilepsy is prevalent among people with neurological problems, primarily those with mental retardation or cerebral palsy, or both.

20% of all persons with epilepsy have their first seizure before age 10. Most all percentage of people with epilepsy has their first seizure before the age 40.

Estimated that 1 of every 200 people has some form of epilepsy. Most cases are so mild as to go undetected.

Facts and Stats

Higher probabilities of seizures occur in women during the menstrual period.

Physical education aids in warding off seizure because of the chemical effect exercise has on the body processes.

Has been linked to heredity, but studies have not convincingly proved the theory.

100% treatable with medication

Facts and Stats Cont…

Partial: Located in one specific area of the brain.

◦ Jacksonian:

◦Psychomotor:

Types of Seizures

Generalized: seizures which involve the entire cerebral cortex (both hemispheres).

◦Grand Mal:

◦Petit Mal:

Types of Seizures

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtU_79Cz-EE&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klWdqqRnWLw&feature=related

Aura:

Tonic Phase:

Clonic Phase:

Sleep or Coma Phase:

Phases During a Seizure

Let it run its course. Move things out of the way so the victim

does not get injured. Remove tight clothing around the neck. Do not hold a person down. Put the person on their side. Only call 911 if the person is injured during

the seizure, if it lasts more than five minutes, or if it seems like a seizure is immediately following a previous one.

During a Seizure

Know that they are the same as everyone else. They just have a condition.

All sports (collision or contact sports included) can be played by a medically balanced student.

Some activities are controversial. For example heading the ball in soccer.

Aquatics or activities that could result in a fall such as gymnastics should not be done alone.

Tips for a Student with Epilepsy

Defined

Causes

Facts and Statistics

What happens in the brain during a seizure

Types of seizures

What to do during a seizure

Tips

Review

Dunn, J. M., & Leitschuh, C. A. (2006). Special physical education (8th ed.). Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt Publishing.

Sherill, C. (1998). Adapted physical activity, recreation, and sport: Crossdisciplinary and lifespan (5th ed.). Dubuque, IA: McGraw-Hill

References