Epilepsy is a common neurological condition which affects the nervous system. It is estimated that there are approximately 50 million people living with epilepsy globally. Around one-sixth (10-12 million) of this population resides in India. The prevalence rate in urban communities is almost twice as observed in rural areas.
In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about epilepsy and what you can do about it.
Understanding Epilepsy
Epilepsy — also known as a seizure disorder — is a brain ailment that is characterised by recurrent seizures. There are different types of epilepsy; in some individuals, the cause can be identified. In others, the cause is unknown.
Seizures can take many distinct forms. As generalised seizures affect the entire brain, the entire body is impacted. A small area of the brain is involved in focal seizures. The condition can impact people of all ages, genders, races, and ethnic backgrounds.
The signs of seizures might differ greatly. While some people do not lose consciousness during a seizure, others might. During a seizure, some individuals look away for a brief period of time. Some people may have convulsions, which are characterised by jerky movements of the arms or legs.
Having one seizure doesn’t mean you have epilepsy — about half of the population who have one seizure never have another seizure. Epilepsy is diagnosed if you’ve had at least two unprovoked seizures that occur at least 24 hours apart. Unprovoked seizures don’t have a clear cause.
Symptoms
The symptoms of epilepsy are seizures or fits, which are episodes of altered electrical activity in the brain and can vary a lot depending on whatever part of the brain is affected. The symptoms may vary depending on the type of seizure. Seizures can cause symptoms like:
- Temporary confusion.
- Loss of consciousness (passing out).
- A staring spell.
- Unusual jerking movements (convulsions)
- Stiff muscles.
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs.
- Psychological symptoms such as fear, anxiety or deja vu.
- Unusual feelings, sensations and behaviours.
Causes
In half of cases, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. Genetics, or family history, is known to be significant.
- Any injury to the brain can also result in seizures or epilepsy, such as:
- trauma or head injury
- brain haemorrhage (bleed) or stroke
- inflammation or infection of the brain, such as encephalitis, meningitis, or a brain abscess
- brain tumours or abnormalities brain illnesses like Alzheimer’s
- long-term drug or alcohol abuse
- abnormalities in blood sugar levels and other metabolic processes
Treatment
Most people with epilepsy can control their seizures with medicines and by avoiding triggers. The type of treatment you need depends upon your age and the type of seizures you are having.
Prevention
While there’s no one way to prevent a seizure, following a well-rounded treatment and management plan can help you control seizures. Talk to your doctor about incorporating the following measures into your overall treatment and management plan to help prevent seizures.
Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor
- Avoid consuming alcohol
- Avoid substance misuse
- Practice stress management
- Maintain a proper sleep schedule
- Follow a consistent meal schedule
- Avoid flashing lights or contrasting patterns of light
- Protect yourself from head injuries
- Pay attention to fevers
When to see a doctor
If you experience any of the following during a seizure, get medical attention right away:
- More than five minutes pass throughout the seizure.
- Breathing or consciousness doesn’t return after the seizure stops.
- A second seizure happens right after.
- You have a high degree fever.
- You are pregnant.
- You are diabetic.
- You hurt yourself during the seizure.
Closing thoughts
Due to the complex nature of seizures, there’s no way to fully prevent them once you’ve had one. However, adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking medicines on time can help.
It’s crucial to always get medical advice before stopping any medicine on your own. If you’re dissatisfied with your current course of therapy, speak with your doctor. They may refer you to a special type of neurologist known as an epileptologist who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and managing seizures.
