Capturing A Seizure: How Video Recording Can Help In Diagnosis And Treatment - Epilepsy Solutions

[Liz Seyi]

Seizures are unpredictable and often frightening events, affecting millions of people worldwide. They can manifest in various ways, from subtle focal seizures to more intense tonic-clonic convulsions. For healthcare professionals and individuals living with epilepsy, accurate diagnosis and management are essential. Video recording has emerged as a valuable tool in capturing and understanding seizures, aiding both patients and medical practitioners. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of video recording seizures, how to do it effectively, and its significance in epilepsy management.
The Power of Video
Video recording is a versatile tool that allows healthcare providers to witness seizures as they occur. This real-time insight offers several key advantages:
Accurate Diagnosis: Video recordings provide unambiguous evidence of seizure activity. This helps healthcare professionals differentiate between seizure types and may prevent misdiagnosis.
Individualized Treatment: Every person’s seizure is unique. Video recordings help tailor treatment plans to each patient's specific needs, potentially reducing the need for medication adjustments or the introduction of new therapies.
Seizure Classification: The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) defines and classifies seizures based on their characteristics and electroencephalogram (EEG) findings. Video recordings contribute significantly to seizure classification by showing the visible features of the seizure.
Patient and Caregiver Understanding: By allowing individuals and their caregivers to witness and document seizures, video recordings offer an improved understanding of the condition. This knowledge can reduce anxiety and improve overall quality of life.
How to Effectively Record Seizures
Choose the Right Camera: Use a smartphone or a dedicated video camera with a clear, high-resolution lens and sufficient storage space.
Positioning: Ensure the camera has a clear view of the person experiencing the seizure. Ideally, position it to capture the person's face and any distinctive movements during the event.
Capture the Entire Episode: Start recording before the seizure begins and continue until it has concluded. This allows healthcare providers to assess the full duration of the event.

Maintain Privacy: Respect the individual's privacy. Keep the video footage confidential and only share it with healthcare professionals involved in their care.
Good Lighting and Audio: Ensure the recording environment has sufficient lighting, and the audio is clear. Clear audio can be particularly helpful in understanding the person's experience and any vocalizations they make during the seizure.
Document Details: Record the date, time, and duration of the seizure. Note any additional information, such as changes in behaviour before or after the event.
Consistency: If possible, maintain a consistent recording setup. Use a dedicated device or camera mount to ensure you can capture each seizure without delay.
Our recommended product at Epilepsy Solutions for video recording and alerting to seizure activity is the The SAMi Sleep Activity monitor which is a sleep activity monitor for caregivers and individuals who need to carefully watch for abnormal movements at night. SAMi uses a night vision network camera to look for unusual motion disrupting sleep. When an unusual event is detected, an alarm is sounded. The display instantly switches to show video and audio. Within seconds, the caregiver can assess the situation and take any necessary action. All motion is also recorded for later review.
The Significance in Epilepsy Management
Video recordings play a crucial role in epilepsy management and care:
Medication Adjustment: When healthcare providers can view seizures on video, they can make informed decisions regarding medication adjustments, dosages, or alternative therapies.
Seizure Freedom Evaluation: After treatment interventions, video recordings help assess the effectiveness of the chosen therapy and determine if the individual has achieved seizure freedom.
Patient Empowerment: Video recordings empower individuals living with epilepsy to actively participate in their care. They can discuss their experiences with their healthcare providers and contribute to better-informed treatment decisions.
Research and Education: Video recordings contribute to research efforts and the education of healthcare professionals. By studying seizure videos, medical practitioners gain valuable insights into the disorder, leading to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Conclusion
Video recording seizures is a valuable tool for healthcare providers and individuals living with epilepsy. It enhances the accuracy of diagnosis, supports individualized treatment, and empowers patients and caregivers. By capturing the essence of seizures on video, we gain a deeper understanding of this complex neurological condition, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by epilepsy.https://epilepsysolutions.co.uk/