Epilepsy And Seizures / Question
Published: April 29, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Next year in college I am rooming with my friend who has epilepsy. I was wondering what I should be aware of, and what I should do if/when she has a seizure. I'm terrified and I want to be confident in my knowledge of epilepsy so that I don't freak out or maybe hurt her in any way. Thanks!
Signed: College Roommate Has Epilepsy
Dear College Roommate Has Epilepsy,
TeenHealthFX thinks that it is good idea to go into this particular roommate situation feeling well-educated about epilepsy. You can find a lot of useful information about Epilepsy on the Epilepsy Foundation website – you might focus on the FAQ’s page of the site. This website includes a very useful set of guidelines on giving first aid during a grand mal seizure – a set list of what to do and what not to do. It might be helpful for you to keep this list printed out in your room where it will be easily accessible.
FX also suggests that you speak with your roommate sometime this summer or right after you get to school about any specific questions or concerns that you may have. For example, if you feel worried or unsure as to what to do should she have a seizure, ask her what the plan should be. You could even have a plan written down somewhere – numbers for the RA on duty, for her parents, her doctor, and directions for you as to what to do if she has a seizure.
FX can appreciate that you may feel nervous about being in this situation – but remember that in a dorm setting there will be plenty of people around such as other students, RA’s, and resident directors. It is unlikely that you will ever be completely alone with her if she has a seizure. Worse to worse you can always call 911 – they can talk you through her seizure and send help.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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