International Epilepsy Day is celebrated every year on the second Monday of February to raise awareness about epilepsy, a common neurological disorder that affects millions of people all over the world. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness, fundraise and advocate for the rights of persons with epilepsy by working to eliminate the myths and stigma surrounding it. TX Hospitals, recognized as the best neurology hospital in Hyderabad, is committed to providing expert care and support for individuals living with epilepsy.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a long-term neurological condition where people have recurrent seizures, brief episodes of seizures caused by bursts of excessive electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can range in seriousness and duration, affecting people differently. It is one of the most prevalent disorders of the brain, can affect any individual at any stage of life, male or female, any race.
Even though epilepsy is a common condition, it still has many misconceptions. This unawareness often leads to discrimination and exclusion of people living with the condition, which is why awareness campaigns like the International Epilepsy Day is so very important.
Causes and Risk Factors
Epilepsy can result from various factors:
- Hereditary: Certain types of epilepsy are inherited in families.
- Head trauma: Injuries to the head caused by accidents or falls can cause epilepsy.
- Infections: Meningitis, encephalitis, or a brain tumour can cause seizures.
- Developmental disorders: The risk is higher if you have autism, other neurodegenerative diseases, or similar conditions.
- Unknown origin: In some cases, the cause is unknown.
Symptoms and Types of Seizures
Seizures of varying severity are the most common form of epilepsy. The most common include the following:
- Focal seizures: Target an area on the brain, and can involve strange feelings, twitching, and loss of awareness.
- Generalized seizures: Affect both sides of the brain or all of the brain at once, causing shaking of muscles, stiffness of muscles, or suddenly falling down.
They can be short and imperceptible, or in other instances severe, causing a total lack of consciousness of the body. Knowing these symptoms is important when trying to provide care to someone experiencing them.
The Importance of International Epilepsy Day
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, affecting more than 50 million people globally, yet it remains misunderstood. International Epilepsy Day focuses on three main areas in need of influence:
- Breaking Myths and Busting Stigma: False beliefs about epilepsy often lead to social isolation and discrimination. Epilepsy is often mistakenly thought to be caused by supernatural forces, or that it is contagious. Dispelling these myths with awareness and understanding fosters a more inclusive and supportive society.
- Advocating for More Accessible Healthcare: Limited access to health care leads to missed opportunities for diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy in several areas of the world. This day is an opportunity to advocate for improved medical resources, more affordable treatment and better access to anti-seizure medication in underserved communities.
- Promoting Research and Innovation: Research in epilepsy can provide better treatments with improved seizure control and ultimately a cure. She added: ‘Increased funding of scientific studies is one way to ensure people with epilepsy receives the best care possible.
Managing Epilepsy: Difficulties and Assistance
Those with epilepsy sometimes experience psychological stress, social shame, and discrimination. Some areas of the world still have misconceptions about things like epilepsy being a communicable illness or the product of supernatural forces. These untrue ideas cause one to be excluded from social events, work, and education.
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In order to make life easier for people living with epilepsy, we need to:
- Encourage acceptance and inclusion in schools, workplaces, and communities.
- Teach the people to bust preconceptions and worries about epilepsy.
- Promote mental health help for those coping with emotional difficulties related to their illness.
- Train first-aid so bystanders can provide help during an epileptic episode.
Conclusion
No one should be defined or limited by epilepsy. An inclusive society where people with epilepsy are understood, supported, and empowered is only possible through awareness, de-stigmatization of epilepsy, and advocacy. This International Epilepsy Day, let’s take a step forward towards creating a more educated and compassionate world. Let us stand together to make a change!
If you or someone you know has recurrent seizures or any symptoms of epilepsy, it is important to visit the best neurology Doctors in Hyderabad, at TX hospitals which provides expert care to ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle modifications, enabling individuals with epilepsy to lead fulfilling lives.
