Abstract
Aim: To examine self-report data on seizure-related injuries and hospitalizations. Method: We analyzed data from the 2010 Australian Epilepsy Longitudinal Survey, distributed to registrants on the Australian Epilepsy Research Register. 343 responses were received (55% response rate), providing insight into experiences of living with seizures. This article examines self-report data on injuries related to seizures and hospitalizations. Results: 64% of those reporting injuries required hospital treatment. Respondents with seizure-related injuries had significantly earlier seizure onset, with risk of injury related to myoclonic and atonic seizures and currently taking 3 or more AEDs. Soft tissue injuries were the most frequently reported (85%), with 27% indicating facial injuries. Conclusions: The high rate of hospitalizations largely for soft tissue injuries suggests that access to more appropriate care was not available. Further research into care-seeking behavior by Australians suffering injury following seizure is required. Additionally, awareness of injury risks is important for appropriate self-management of epilepsy.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 7-10 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Epilepsy and Behavior |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 2013 |
Keywords
- Atonic seizure
- Epilepsy
- Longitudinal survey
- Myoclonic seizure
- Seizure-related injuries and hospitalizations