
Right this moment, greater than 50 million folks worldwide endure from epilepsy. Individuals with epilepsy should face loads of stigma in society due to the myths surrounding this illness. The stigma downgrades the standard of life and supplies deep psychological trauma to the already struggling sufferers. Moreover, lack of understanding restricts folks from figuring out present first assist to anybody affected by seizures.
What’s epilepsy?
In keeping with Dr Abhishek Juneja, Senior Marketing consultant Neurologist – Maharaja Agrasen Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Juneja’s Neuro heart, epilepsy is a neurological dysfunction presenting seizures as a consequence of irregular electrical exercise within the mind. It is usually often called a seizure dysfunction. At the least two seizure episodes, that aren’t due to every other identified medical situation, are required to make a analysis of epilepsy.
What are seizures?
Seizures occur due to irregular and extreme electrical exercise within the mind. They could happen due to mind harm, an infection, metabolic derangements, or genetic causes. Many a instances, the trigger could also be unknown.
The professional outlines that seizure indicators and signs might embody:
* A staring spell
* Eye or facial twitching
* Jerky actions of the legs and arms
* Lack of consciousness or consciousness
* Urinary incontinence
* Tongue chew
Signs might differ primarily based on the kind of seizure. Eye or facial twitching, jerky motion of 1 hand or foot might occur in focal seizures. Whereas tonic posturing adopted by jerky actions of all limbs normally occur in generalized seizures.
Additionally learn: Fatima Sana Shaikh opens up about her battle with epilepsy, says she has learnt to “stay round it”

First assist for seizure
Individuals round an individual affected by epilepsy ought to know handle seizures. Dr Juneja advises to observe the three S’s
Keep: Stick with the seizing individual till he/she regains consciousness. A typical generalized seizure lasts for a couple of minutes. Name the ambulance instantly to avoid wasting the essential time.
Protected: Hold the individual protected. Any sharp objects or objects mendacity within the neighborhood that may injure the affected person, needs to be eliminated. The affected person needs to be positioned in a protected, properly lit, and open area.
Facet: Flip the affected person on one facet after the jerky actions subside. This can stop the tongue from falling again and obstructing the airway, enabling the affected person to breathe comfortably. Loosen the garments across the neck space.
Dr Juneja recommends additionally recommends to keep away from placing or inserting something like a spoon, or picket stick within the mouth of the seizing individual.
Take a look at this video on first assist for seizures
Want for epilepsy consciousness
“We should always carry a distinction to the lives of sufferers affected by epilepsy by spreading extra consciousness about this illness, about first assist that could be provided to a seizing affected person, and likewise dispel the myths surrounding this situation,” says Dr Juneja.
In relation to epilepsy remedy, you have to know it may be handled and managed with protected and efficient drugs.

One other key facet is the truth that folks with epilepsy usually tend to have psychological issues, particularly despair, anxiousness, and suicidal ideas.
These issues are because of the problem confronted by such folks in coping with the situation.
Myths and misconceptions round epilepsy have survived too lengthy, encouraging the stigma round this situation. Individuals have solely step by step began opening up about their sickness.
“If an individual suffers from stigma, it could actually hinder their willingness to hunt remedy. This could additional disrupt the bodily, psychological and emotional well-being of the person,” he provides.
Subsequently, there’s a want to extend consciousness concerning the signs, analysis, and administration of epilepsy in order that the social limitations to remedy are lowered. Sufferers with epilepsy may lead a standard and productive life in the event that they get help from society.