this is describing my personal seizures and how I like to be helped during a seizure

I have several different types of seizures.

I experience atonic seizures, also as drop attacks…basically I completely fall to the floor. I have broken my jaw twice, lost many teeth, and looked like someone beat me up because of these.

Atonic seizures are the seizures that keep me in a bubble. I don’t do anything alone because of these…it’s too dangerous.

I experience photo-sensitivity seizures. Which means flashing lights, movie theatres, shows, concerts, nighttime activities, repetitive noises, and nighttime highway driving. Pretty much going from darkness to light and vice versa is a no-no.

I experience Clonic seizures. During a clonic seizure, I may begin jerking in various parts of the body. I may have confusion afterwards.

I also have Tonic-Clonic seizures, also known as grand mal seizures. The grand mal usually lasts 1-3 minutes until I come out of it, but then, boom, I’m back into it for what may last another 30 -40 minutes.

I take Ativan sublingual for it. It goes under my tongue. I always carry it on me. It’s my security blanket. During the seizure, I am convulsing maybe one side or both sides. I usually like to be covered up. But shouldn’t be so it can be documented what side is seizing the most. I don’t froth or have saliva. But I may make weird noises.

I also have Catamenial Seizures. Yes, monthly seizures. Good old menstrual cycle seizures. Hormones are jumping around reeking havoc on your seizures. Did you know that 30-50% of epileptic patterns correspond with menstrual cycles? Vulnerability to seizures is highest just before and during flow and at ovulation.

Seizure first Aid: please stay with me. Only call an ambulance if I’m really hurt, but for the most part you need to stick two ativan under my tongue. Don’t be scared. I’ll walk you through it. Or call my husband. Make sure I’m safe laying down. Time my seizure. It will feel like forever. I may cry. Don’t keep asking me questions. I will talk to you when I’m able to. And remember, thank you for being there. Oh and don’t put anything in my mouth or restrain me.

I am always thankful for anyone who sits with me.

A gentle touch is fine. I just want to know I’m not alone.

photo courtesy of supportepilepsyfighters