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St. Louis Seize the Day 5k Run/Walk
5K Run/1 Mile Walk
June 23, 2018
Kirkwood Park
Mission
The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation of Missouri and Kansas is to lead the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives.
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What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy–also known as a seizure disorder–is a chronic neurological disease characterized by a tendency to have recurrent seizures.
Myths and Facts
Myth: You should put a spoon, wallet or other object in the mouth during a seizure.
Fact: Never put anything in a person’s mouth during a seizure. Doing so can cause injury to the teeth or gums. A person cannot swallow his or her tongue during a seizure.
Myth: Epilepsy is contagious.
Fact: You cannot catch epilepsy from, or give it to, someone else.
Myth: Seizures are completely uncontrollable.
Fact: Through medication, diet or surgery, or a combination of these, people with epilepsy can achieve full or partial control of their seizures in 85% of cases.
What is a Seizure?
A seizure is a brief, excessive discharge of electrical activity in the brain that alters one or more of the following:
- Movement
- Behavior
- Sensation
- Awareness
Types of Seizures
Seizures can be divided into two categories: partial and generalized.
Partial seizures begin in only one part of the brain and awareness may be impaired or remain intact.
Types of partial seizures:
Generalized seizures originate in both sides of the brain and awareness may be impaired.
Types of generalized seizures:
Tonic-clonic (formerly grand mal)
How Common is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is the 4th most common neurological disease–more common than cerebral palsy, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis combined.
Want to Know More?
Triggers - knowing your triggers can help you prepare
First Aid - what should you do if you see someone having a seizure?
Safety - lessen the risks of living with epilepsy
SUDEP - Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy
Seniors - sometimes, it's not just "getting older"
Research - what are the latest treatment options?
Women's Issues - hormones and seizures
Wellness Institute - self-care is critical to your health
