You’re not alone if you’re feeling worried about it and what it means for you and your family.
The coronavirus attacks the respiratory system. Most people infected with the viral illness will only have mild to moderate symptoms, however, it can be severe and life-threatening, particularly for the elderly with an underlying health condition.
We are receiving calls from people who are understandably worried that epilepsy may place them at higher risk of developing coronavirus.
Breaking down myths and misconceptions
Epilepsy is a term given to many different disorders that lead to seizures. Some people will have easily controlled seizures, have no other health problems, and become seizure-free on medication. Or they may have epilepsy with occasional seizures but no other health problems. For these people, the available data suggests that just having epilepsy alone
Does not increase the risk of getting coronavirus and
Does not increase the severity of coronavirus
Other health conditions
Some people with epilepsy regardless of seizure control have other health conditions that put them at higher risk from coronavirus.
They may be taking medicines to control seizures that also affect their immune system (for example, ACTH, steroids, immunotherapies). Or they may have other neurological or developmental issues that affect their immunity. People in these situations are at greater risk of developing more severe symptoms with viral illnesses.
People with epilepsy may have other medical problems that could place them at higher risk of developing more severe symptoms with coronavirus.
For example, people who have problems swallowing or frequently inhale food or liquid into their lungs (aspiration) are at higher risk for pneumonia
People with diabetes or underlying heart or lung problems also appear to be at higher risk for severe coronavirus.
Regardless of your situation, it is important for anyone with epilepsy to talk to their treating doctor about their individual risks and if any specific medical precautions are needed. Take precautions to avoid getting sick too.
Can coronavirus increase seizures if a person gets the virus?
When a person with epilepsy gets sick with another illness, especially with a high temperature, they may notice a change or increase in their seizures.
The illness is a physical and emotional stressor to the body that could make seizures more likely. The same happens with coronavirus.
Other triggers may include:
- Not eating or drinking normally
- Not being able to take medications regularly (for example, if vomiting is a problem)
- Not being able to sleep well
Worry and anxiety about seizures and coronavirus may affect people.
Preliminary information from countries where outbreaks have occurred suggests that the risk of worsening seizures with coronavirus appears to be low for most people with epilepsy.
What should be done if seizures change or increase?
If you or a loved one develop coronavirus and notice changes in seizures, contact your GP and neurologist.
Just like any other time, if you or a loved one have an emergency such as seizures lasting too long or more seizures than usual, seek emergency help.
What to do to avoid catching coronavirus?
- Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds
- When you can’t wash your hands, use a sanitiser
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home if you are sick and call your doctor first, before going into their clinic
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the bin
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
- Preparing for any emergency
- Preparing for potential emergencies is part of life for all of us.
- Talk to your pharmacist about creating an emergency supply of prescription medicines
- Don’t leave it until the last minute to get a new prescription from your doctor
- If you will need a new prescription in a few weeks, get it early
- Keep your Epilepsy Management Plan up to date – you can ask Epilepsy Queensland to help you with this
- Keep a phone and any electronic devices charged that you may need for medication reminders or for calling family or emergency responders.
Call our friendly Services team if you have more questions on 07 3435 5000. Keep up to date with the advice from the Department of Health www.health.gov.au
The primary source of this information is www.epilepsy.com/article/2020/3/concerns-about-coronavirus-and-epilepsy
Coronavirus and Mental health
In these uncertain times, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. One in five people will experience a mental health condition even in “normal” circumstances, and we know that people with epilepsy experience higher rates of anxiety and depression. This can be especially difficult if you are already isolated, which is the case for some people with epilepsy. Just as we’re looking after our physical health, we need to be proactive and look after our emotional and mental health.
If the worry and stress is getting too much, we’re here to help. Call us on 1300 852 853.
During this time it is important to access CREDIBLE information about COVID-19
We have included some helpful links:
- Australian Government Department of Health www.health.gov.au
- Australian Government Department of Health www.headtohealth.gov.au
- Queensland Government COVID-19 latest information and available support www.covid19.qld.gov.au
- Beyond Blue www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/looking-after-your-mental-health-during-…
- Coronavirus Australia government app in the Apple App Store or Google Play
- Coronavirus news and information in 63 languages www.sbs.com.au/language/coronavirus
- Health Direct Symptoms Checker www.healthdirect.gov.au/coronavirus
- Queensland Health Facebook Page
- Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
- COVID-19 information line 1800 020 080
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
- Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349
Coronavirus update- hospital neurology services
Things are changing every day at present. For Epilepsy Queensland members, supporters, volunteers and stakeholders this can be challenging.
Neurology services in hospitals in Queensland are still operating but clinic appointments are being impacted. In some cases, reviews are available via phone.
Staff in Neurology departments may be reassigned in the near future to assist onwards and in other front line services so they may not be able to provide you with all the services they have previously. Contacting your GP in those instances may get you a quicker response.
Staff have been in touch with EQ send their thoughts and best wishes and look forward to seeing you in the future.
If you do not have family/friends to assist in filling scripts assist may be available from the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 (also known as the Care Army).
