Epilepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide, but despite its occurrence, it remains one of the most misunderstood neurological disorders. The lack of awareness and persistent stigma surrounding epilepsy can worsen the condition, leading to both physical and emotional challenges for those who live with it. On this National Epilepsy Day, it’s crucial to understand epilepsy better, learn how to manage seizures, and break down the myths that contribute to stigma.
What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition marked by frequent seizures brought on by an electrical activity imbalance in the brain. According to experts’ epilepsy, often referred to as “seizure disorder,” is diagnosed after a person experience at least two seizure episodes that aren’t triggered by another medical condition.
What Causes Seizures?
Seizures occur due to irregular electrical activity in the brain, which can result from various factors, including brain injury, infections, metabolic imbalances, or genetic predispositions. However, in lots of cases, the accurate cause may not be known.
There are different types of seizures, and the symptoms can vary. Common signs include:
- Staring spells or periods of confusion
- Eye or facial twitching
- Jerky movements of the arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Uncontrolled urination
- Biting of the tongue
Seizures can be broadly categorized into focal seizures, which affect one part of the brain and often cause localized movements or sensations, and generalized seizures, which involve the entire brain and often lead to loss of consciousness and full-body convulsions.
How to Manage Seizures
Knowing how to manage a seizure when you’re with someone who has epilepsy can make a life-saving difference. Experts further outline a simple approach to seizure first aid using the 3 S’s:
- Stay: Stay with the person until they regain consciousness. A typical generalized seizure lasts only a few minutes, but it’s important to remain calm and avoid panicking. If the seizure lasts more than five minutes, seek emergency medical help.
- Safe: Ensure the person’s safety by removing any sharp objects or dangerous items nearby that could cause injury. Place the person in a safe, open space to prevent accidental harm.
- Side: Once the jerky movements subside, gently turn the person onto their side. This position helps prevent the tongue from blocking the airway and allows the person to breathe more easily. Loosen any tight clothing, especially around the neck, to prevent choking.
It is crucial to never insert anything into the mouth of a person experiencing a seizure, as it can cause more harm than good. Avoid using objects like spoons, sticks, or fingers to try and “hold” the person’s tongue or prevent biting.
The Importance of Epilepsy Awareness
Raising awareness about epilepsy is vital for breaking down stigma and improving the quality of life for those affected by the disorder. The experts also emphasize the need to educate people about epilepsy, how to respond during a seizure, and how to challenge the myths that continue to fuel negative perceptions of the condition.
Myth-Busting: The Stigma Surrounding Epilepsy
One of the biggest barriers to better treatment and support for people with epilepsy is the stigma that surrounds the condition. Many individuals suffering from epilepsy are often subjected to discrimination, social isolation, and even psychological distress. These negative perceptions can deter people from seeking treatment, which in turn affects their mental and emotional well-being.
Epilepsy is treatable with effective medications, and with proper care, people living with the condition can lead a full, normal, and productive life. However, psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are common among people with epilepsy, often due to the stress of living with the condition and dealing with stigma. It is essential to provide emotional and mental health support to individuals with epilepsy to help them manage not just the physical symptoms but also the psychological impact.
How You Can Help
On National Epilepsy Day and beyond, it’s crucial to spread awareness and educate yourself and others about the symptoms of epilepsy, management, and treatment for seizures. Helping to dispel the myths surrounding epilepsy can encourage those affected to seek treatment and support, reducing the psychological toll of stigma.
By fostering a comprehensive environment and understanding, we can ensure that people with epilepsy lead healthier, happier lives. Seizures may be part of their journey, but stigma doesn’t have to be.
