British Epilepsy Association

Within the course of my job, I often have to deal with a resident having a Grand Mal Seizure or Epileptic fit .... These can sometimes be known also as Tonic or Clonic seizures depending on the severity of the seizurre. Tonic is where the muscles stiffen, a fixed stare appears on the residents face and they loose consciousness and finally fall to ground level. They sometimes give out a moan or groan. This is due to air being forced past the vocal chords. They can sometimes bite the tongue or inside of their mouth causing blood to come from their mouth along with their saliva. They can also drain of colour in the face and go clammy to the touch. If ...  Read the complete review

My mum joined the BEA for me when I was diagnosed with epilepsy at 16. It was a big shock as I went to bed as normal, I was a healthy teenager and no problems other then asthma and hayfever, and then I 'awoke' in the morning to be told by my mum that I was not to worry but I had to go to hospital and an ambulance was on its way. As you can imagine, I was terified and confused and the rest of the day is mostly a blur. I then had another fit about a week later and so was given an appointment to undergo tests. These were a brain scan and a full body scan. The tests were clear but as I had had two fits I went on to medication. I had further fits as ...  Read the complete review

Diagnosed as an epileptic at 19 (now 39)I have used information by the BEA for years - I have always found it to be both useful and up-to-date, which is important because there are many legal restrictions for people with epilepsy (eg jobs you take up and driving regulations). Before me they helped my mother come to terms with my condition and recently I wondered if my young child has developed the condition, the helpline was helpful, reassuring and comforting, and they have sent me some information on childhood disorders. Their one downside is that they can be a little too tenacious when they are ...  Read the complete review