Living with epilepsy can be confusing and, at times, frightening — both for those who experience it and for the people who love them. In this article, we’ll help you understand what epilepsy really is, how to recognize and manage seizures, and what to do if an emergency happens. At Helicopteros Sanitarios, our Emergency Service for Epilepsy in Marbella is available 24/7 to respond quickly when someone experiences a seizure or complication related to epilepsy. Knowing what to do, and who to call can make all the difference.
What Exactly Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes repeated seizures. These seizures happen because of sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain, which can affect how a person moves, behaves, or feels for a short period of time.
Some people might only have mild, brief episodes — like staring spells or twitching in one part of the body — while others experience full-body convulsions and loss of consciousness.
There’s no single cause. Epilepsy can develop after a head injury, stroke, infection, or sometimes for no clear reason at all. What matters most is early diagnosis and ongoing management.
Recognising the Signs
Not all seizures look the same. Some are subtle, while others are more obvious. Here are a few common signs to look out for:
- Sudden stiffness or jerking movements
- Momentary loss of awareness or confusion
- Staring spells
- Sudden falls or loss of balance
- Temporary inability to speak or move
If you notice these signs, especially if they happen more than once, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation.
Living Well with Epilepsy
Managing epilepsy often involves more than just taking medication. Lifestyle adjustments and regular monitoring are just as important.
A few key habits can help:
- Stick to your medication schedule. Missing doses can trigger seizures.
- Prioritize sleep. Fatigue can increase seizure risk.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and drugs. Both can interfere with medication.
- Reduce stress. Easier said than done, but deep breathing, gentle exercise, or meditation can help.
- Keep a seizure diary. Tracking patterns helps doctors fine-tune treatment.
And perhaps most importantly, tell the people close to you what to do if you have a seizure. Education prevents panic and saves lives.
What to Do During a Seizure
If someone around you has a seizure:
- Stay calm and keep them safe. Move sharp objects away.
- Turn them gently onto their side once the movements stop.
- Don’t put anything in their mouth.
- Time the seizure: if it lasts more than five minutes, call for emergency help immediately.
That’s where we come in.
Emergency Support When You Need It Most
At Helicopteros Sanitarios, our Emergency Service for Epilepsy in Marbella provides rapid medical response and professional care, whether at home or on the road. Our team is trained to handle all types of seizures and provide the right treatment quickly, minimizing risks and ensuring safety when it matters most.
If you or someone you love lives with epilepsy, don’t wait until a crisis to prepare. Keep our emergency number close, and let us be your first call when help is needed.
Because when every second counts, having expert care just minutes away truly matters.