Seizure-related injuries and hospitalizations: Self-report data from the 2010 Australian Epilepsy Longitudinal Survey

Michelle Bellon, Christine Walker, Chirs Peterson

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    23 Citations (Scopus)

    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 languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)7-10
    Number of pages4
    JournalEpilepsy and Behavior
    Volume26
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Jan 2013

    Keywords

    • Atonic seizure
    • Epilepsy
    • Longitudinal survey
    • Myoclonic seizure
    • Seizure-related injuries and hospitalizations

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