Epilepsy: Key Facts and First Aid

Written by Dr. Esmeralda Park | March 26th 2025

Epilepsy Statictics: A Global and National Perspective

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders worldwide, affecting millions of people across different backgrounds. Here are some key statistics to better understand the scope of epilepsy:

• Global Impact: Around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy.
• Disparities in Treatment: Nearly 80% of people with epilepsy live in low- and middle-income countries, where access to treatment is limited.
• Many individuals face stigma and discrimination due to misconceptions about epilepsy.
• 70% of those affected do not receive proper medical care.

Prevalence in the U.S.:

• 1 in 10 people will experience a single seizure in their lifetime.
• 1 in 26 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy.
• As of 2021, approximately 3 million adults and 460,000 children in the U.S. live with epilepsy.

Treatment Challenges:

• 1 in 3 people with epilepsy will not respond to available treatments and will continue experiencing seizures.
• The good news? About 70% of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free with proper treatment and medication.

Seizure and First Aid: What to Do & What to Avoid

Knowing how to respond during a seizure can make a significant difference in ensuring the person’s safety. Here are the key do’s and don’ts when helping someone experiencing a seizure:

✅ Do:

• ✔ Stay calm – Keeping a level head helps prevent panic.
• ✔ Stay with the person – Ensure they are not left alone.
• ✔ Time the seizure – If it lasts longer than 3-5 minutes, call 911.
• ✔ Monitor the person’s movements – Pay attention to their eyes, face, arms, and legs for stiffening, jerking, or twitching. If possible, record a video to share with medical professionals.
• ✔ Help position them safely – Place them on their side or slightly upright to prevent choking.
• ✔ Support their head – Place something soft (like a jacket) under their head.
• ✔ Loosen tight clothing – Remove anything around the neck that could restrict breathing.
• ✔ Call 911 if necessary – If the seizure lasts too long or results in an injury, seek emergency help.
• ✔ Administer rescue medication if prescribed in their seizure action plan.

❌Do Not:

• ✖ Put anything in their mouth – This is a common myth. They will not swallow their tongue.

• ✖ Physically restrain them – Holding them down can cause injury.

• By spreading awareness and practicing proper seizure first aid, we can create a safer and more informed community for individuals living with epilepsy