November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month

Did you know that November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month? According to the Epilepsy Foundation, individuals with NF1 are at a higher risk of developing epilepsy, with a 4-7% incidence rate compared to the general population.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can result in seizures. Seizures are broadly classified into two main categories: generalized seizures and focal seizures. Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain, while focal seizures affect one side of the brain. There are several subcategories of seizures in each of these categories. For example, a person with absence seizures may appear to be staring into space, while tonic-clonic seizures are characterized by jerking movements and spasms. Simple focal seizures may cause twitching, while complex focal seizures can make a person feel confused or disoriented.

If you or someone you know is experiencing seizures, it’s important to speak with a primary physician or neurologist to address any concerns. Your doctor can provide guidance on how to manage seizures and when to seek medical attention. The Epilepsy Foundation offers a virtual training program called First Aid for Seizures.

For more information on epilepsy and NF1, check out the video on NF1 and seizures, as well as the article on Seizures in Neurofibromatosis Type 1.