{"id":12247,"date":"2022-11-16T11:27:33","date_gmt":"2022-11-16T11:27:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/?p=12247"},"modified":"2022-11-16T11:27:33","modified_gmt":"2022-11-16T11:27:33","slug":"everything-about-seizure-alert-devices","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/everything-about-seizure-alert-devices\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything You Need To Know About Seizure Alert Devices"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What Are Seizure Alert Devices?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Seizure alert devices are electronic medical devices <a href=\"https:\/\/epilepsyfoundation.org.au\/understanding-epilepsy\/epilepsy-and-seizure-management-tools\/seizure-monitors-devices\/\">that can detect<\/a> or predict seizures in people with certain medical conditions such as epilepsy. Although they cannot prevent epileptic seizures, they can notify caretakers and caregivers when an epileptic patient suffers a seizure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Why Seizure Alert Devices Are Important\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Epileptic seizures occur when the electrical activity of the brain is disturbed. These seizures can occur at any place and at any time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Seizures are characterized by shaking, twitching, feelings of fear, repeated movements, confusion, and stiffness throughout the body, among other symptoms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Seizures can be triggered by various events and activities including, but not limited to, lack of adequate sleep, chronic stress, missed medication, menstruation, and alcohol.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Seizures can occur while the epileptic patient is cooking, bathing, cycling, swimming, or even driving, and that can put the patient&#8217;s life in danger. Furthermore, a person can get a seizure that may last for more than five minutes. This can cause brain damage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Additionally, a person with epilepsy may die suddenly due to a seizure. This is known as a sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), which <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/neurology_neurosurgery\/centers_clinics\/epilepsy\/treatment.html\">often occurs<\/a> during sleep.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Therefore, if the person living with epilepsy can quickly alert a friend, family member, co-worker, etc., when they have a seizure while they are alone, they can get help immediately.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The Different Types Of Seizure Alert Devices Currently Available<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The types of seizure alert devices currently <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34419933\/\">available<\/a> on the market are motion devices. Some of them predict seizure-like activity by monitoring movements of the body, such as intense shaking in the arms or legs. Others can record sounds made by people with epilepsy and send alerts to their caregivers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Three types of devices are available at the moment:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Camera seizure alert devices<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Watch seizure alert devices<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Mattress seizure alert devices<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Camera Seizure Alert Devices<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">These devices monitor the sleep of the person living with epilepsy. While the epileptic patient is sleeping, audio and video information from a remote video camera is relayed to an app on a smartphone (Android, iPhone, iPod Touch, etc.).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> The app records and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3233224\/\">analyzes<\/a> that information for any seizure-like activity. When a seizure-like movement is detected, an alarm sounds, and then a live sound and video from the camera follow. The sound and video are sent to the paired phone of the patient&#8217;s caregiver, so they can take action.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Watch And Phone Seizure Alert Devices<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Some of these <a href=\"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wearable-devices-benefits-advantages\/\">wearable devices<\/a> are apps installed on certain companies&#8217; smartwatches. When the watch detects repeated shaking movements similar to those that happen during epileptic seizures, it sends a signal to the app on the smartphone of the person with epilepsy. The app then sends phone calls and text messages to schoolmates, friends, family members, co-workers, etc.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Others are smart wristwatches that monitor the physical activity and rest of the person living with epilepsy and send data through a Bluetooth connection to the smartphone of the caregiver.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> For this device to work effectively, the patient must stay within about 25 feet of the caregiver. When unusual movements resembling convulsive seizures are detected, a phone call or text message is sent to the caregiver&#8217;s phone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Mattress Seizure Alert Devices<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">These devices can be positioned under any type of mattress. They have very sensitive microphones that can detect sounds made by a person with epilepsy. You can also adjust the level of sensitivity, so your body weight or the type of bed you sleep in does not affect its effectiveness.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When the epileptic patient makes convulsive-like movements, or when he groans, smacks his lips, or makes any other sounds repeatedly over a timed period, the device transmits an alarm via an installed radio transmitter to a pager to warn the person&#8217;s loved ones.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Portable Pulse Oximeters<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">These devices can be attached to a toe or fingertip. They monitor the percentage of oxygen in a person&#8217;s blood, as well as the person&#8217;s heart rate. Those are two vital signs that can give clues that a person is having a seizure. They can send alarms to warn caregivers of people who have seizures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Mobile Apps<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Various seizure alert mobile apps are also available. Some of them are compatible with iPhones and certain smartwatches. They monitor movements of the body similar to seizures, as well as changes in the heart rate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When certain parameters are activated, the person&#8217;s emergency contacts saved on the app are automatically alerted so they can take the necessary action required. They also have help request buttons that send phone calls, text messages, emails, or a combination of those, to your loved ones.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Limitations Of Seizure Alert Devices<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Although seizure alert devices can help people with epilepsy, there are many things they cannot do. Some of these things are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The person with epilepsy can only use them when he lives or shares living quarters with others.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The devices detect only shaking movements and cannot detect focal impaired awareness (epileptic episodes in which the patient does not convulse but may only cry, laugh, freeze, or pick at the air, etc.).\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Some devices cannot notify caregivers of changes in heart rate or breathing difficulties; caregivers need to know two vital signs so they can alert doctors to prevent SUDEP.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Most of the devices currently being sold on the market have not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Evidence that those devices work comes from research done in either epilepsy monitoring units of certain hospitals or in certain homes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What To Consider When Choosing A Seizure Alert Device<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Step 1<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Different types of devices can detect different types of seizures. Therefore the first thing you need to consider is to find out what type of device can detect the type of seizure you want to monitor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Additionally, think about all situations that you are concerned about.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Are you worried about having seizures at night while sleeping alone?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Are you worried about your loved one getting seizures while cooking or driving?\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Are you worried about you or your family member having a seizure during the day while swimming?\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Write down all these questions you have in your mind regarding those situations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Talk to your epileptologist or neurologist about the type of seizure you want to monitor so you can be informed about the methods that may work best for you. And discuss your concerns with him.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Step 2<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ask yourself certain pertinent questions. Here are some of the important questions you may ask yourself.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 1: What Do I Want The Seizure Alert Device To Do For Me?\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What is the main reason you want to buy the device?<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Do you want your friends and loved ones to know exactly where you are if you are alone during a seizure?<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Do you want to alert a friend or relative by email, text, or phone call when a seizure happens?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Do you want a safety check during or after a seizure?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 2: Do I Live Alone, Or do I Live With Other People?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Some of the devices are most useful when you live alone. Others are helpful when you live with others.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Do I live alone, or do I live with other people?<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Do I need internet access to be able to use this device?<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Does the device require a particular kind of smartphone to enable it to work?<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If I live alone and my caregiver lives somewhere else, how can the person check in with me?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 3: Can I Use The Device Only At Home?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Some devices can work properly in only one location, such as at home. Others work well even when moved around.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">So you may want to find out if the device is GPS enabled and can show where you are at any particular moment in time.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ask whether the device can send an alert to an emergency medical responder.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 4: What Are The Cons Of Using This Device?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Find out if it is reliable and sensitive enough to pick up all the types of seizures that the person with epilepsy has.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The device may give false alerts by detecting movements that are not seizures but which resemble seizures. Can you stop the alert from being sent if something of the sort occurs?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 5: Can The Device Prevent SUDEP Risk Factors Or SUDEP Itself?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Suppose the device is able to collect reliable data (when seizures occur and how many seizures occur) about your seizures. In that case, improving your seizure control will make it easier for you and your caregivers and doctors. Seizure control is one of the most effective ways to lower a person&#8217;s risk for SUDEP.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 6: Do I Want Other People To Have Access To Data From The Device?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ask whether sharing data from the device will be possible and how you can do this.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Do you want only your family and doctors to see the data? Do you want researchers too to see the data?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Find out if you can share data with many people using the device.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ask whether the device shares data in real-time or shares data at a later date.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Find out what the manufacturer&#8217;s privacy protection policies are and how they will protect your privacy when your data is shared.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Question 7: How Much Will It Cost?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You may want to find out whether you will have to pay a monthly or annual fee. Will you be given a full discount if you pay an annual fee?<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Additionally, you may want to know whether the cost of the device is covered by insurance. If it is, will you have to pay the full cost first and then get a reimbursement? Or will the manufacturer submit it to insurance?<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ask about the device&#8217;s return and refund policy.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Does a warranty cover the device? Will you continue to receive technical support after the warranty ends?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What Other Questions Should I Ask?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u2022 Can anybody of any age use it?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u2022 Can anybody of any weight use it?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u2022 Do you have different sizes of this device?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u2022 Does the device use electricity or a battery? If it is powered by a battery-powered, what is the battery life?<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>AUTHOR&#8217;S BIO:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>With over ten years of experience in writing health and wellness articles, Isaac Nunoofio is an experienced health, wellness, and health tech writer. He is a Google-certified digital marketer, Content Marketing Institute-certified content marketer, and SEO expert. He helps bloggers, websites, and health and healthcare companies to create health content and gives others health tips at his\u00a0<a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/isaacnunoofio.blogspot.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>Freelance Health Writer<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0blog. You can also connect with him at https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/isaacnunoofio.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Are Seizure Alert Devices? Seizure alert devices are electronic medical devices that can detect or predict seizures in people with certain medical conditions such as epilepsy. Although they cannot prevent epileptic seizures, they can notify caretakers and caregivers when an epileptic patient suffers a seizure.\u00a0 Why Seizure Alert Devices Are Important\u00a0 Epileptic seizures occur [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":12254,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[14,9],"tags":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12247"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12247"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12247\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12255,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12247\/revisions\/12255"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12254"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12247"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12247"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/youmustgethealthy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12247"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}