Actor Henri Castelli left BBB 26 after having a seizure. According to the program’s production, he was under observation after suffering two seizures and, on the advice of doctors, he had to leave the hospital. reality show.

This case rekindled attention to a health problem that can affect people without any neurological history. Experts warn that seizures are not a disease in themselves, but a symptom that can have multiple causes and that always requires appropriate medical evaluation.

“Sleep deprivation, dehydration, prolonged fasting and emotional stress can trigger a crisis, especially in those with some predisposition”, explains Felipe Schimit, coordinator of the Neurology Center at Hospital Samaritano Barra e Vitória, from Rede Américas. According to him, these triggers They can alter brain activity and neurotransmission, generating anomalous electrical discharges that cause seizures.

Risk of seizure recurrence

The risk of a second attack, in unprovoked cases, is around 50% within two years, but episodes apparently triggered by factors External infections tend to be less likely to recur. Regardless of the context, medical evaluation and monitoring are essential to rule out serious causes.

Care in a convulsive crisis

Carla Guariglia, neurologist at Hospital Samaritano Higienópolis, also from Rede Américas, reinforces: “It is very important that, at the time of a convulsive crisis, when the patient falls to the floor, we protect the fall, especially the head, to avoid impacts graves”.

Furthermore, according to the doctor, shortly after the crisis, it is common for the patient to vomit. “In this case, it is essential to leave the head slightly turned to the side, preventing him from choking or aspirating his own vomit, considering that he will be in a state of reduced consciousness”, he advises.

And, contrary to what is popularly said, you should not tie your tongue, hold it or place objects in your mouth, such as knives or cutlery, to prevent the seizure. These procedures are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury.

How to act during a seizure

Below, experts provide guidance on how to act during a seizure:

• Protect the person: move objects away and protect the head to avoid trauma;
• Put the person aside: this reduces the risk of bronchoaspiration and makes breathing easier;
• Don’t put anything in your mouth: avoid holding the tongue or inserting objects, which can cause serious injuries;
• Don’t force movements: do not try to contain the seizure or move limbs;
• Note the duration: seek medical attention if the crisis lasts more than a few minutes or if recovery is difficult;
• Seek medical evaluation: even a first crisis requires investigation of the causes and follow-up for prevention;
• Pay attention to triggers: insufficient sleep, stress, prolonged fasting and dehydration can encourage new crises.

By Monique Dutra