While researching a character in one of my books, I discovered a disease called JANZ syndrome, otherwise known as Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME), a fairly common form of idiopathic generalized epilepsy, representing 5-10% of all epilepsies.
What are the symptoms of Janz?
(1) myoclonic jerks on awakening usually of the limbs like arms or legs, this will cause some sufferers to knock over things like juice or coffee.
(2) GTCS generalized tonic-clonic seizures, occurring usually after a series of myoclonic jerks. Also called grand mal seizures.
(3) typical absences seizures.
What to do if someone is having a seizure:
- move them away from anything that could cause injury, such as a busy road or hot cooker
- cushion their head if they're on the ground
- loosen any tight clothing around their neck, such as a collar or tie, to aid breathing
- when their convulsions stop, turn them so that they're lying on their side
- stay with them and talk to them calmly until they have recovered
- note the time the seizure starts and finishes
DO NOT put anything in their mouth, including your fingers. They may bite their tongue, but this will heal. Putting an object in their mouth could cause more damage.
If you want to see a video from a Janz sufferer, please watch the video below:
If you want to donate to the Epilepsy Foundation, click the link below:
Sources: NHS Epilepsy Information
Epilepsy Foundation
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