Epilepsy in focus

The second edition of World Brain Day was observed on Wednesdat. The World Federation of Neurology (WFN), representing 117 professional societies in 116 countries, suggested that the day be observed annually to raise awareness about brain health and its related issues. While the focus was on ‘Strokes and Dementia’ last year, this year, epilepsy will be highlighted this year.

Epilepsy is the most widespread chronic brain disorder which is acquired genetically. Most of the people are not aware of it. Added to this, public also has misperceptions about this serious disorder. Most physicians don’t posses adequate knowledge about epilepsy nor are people aware about its medication. This prompted WFN to focus on epilepsy this year.

Epilepsy is a disorder usually characterised by epileptic seizures. Epileptic seizures are where the brain has a deep disturbance in its electrical functioning. People suffering from epilepsy will lose awareness of the surroundings randomly which is usually identified by jerks in hands and legs. Epilepsy usually leads to psychosocial consequences.

The most common signs and symptoms of this serious chronic disease are characterised by long-term risk of seizures. In most cases epilepsy is not known. But few people develop epilepsy out of brain injury, brain stroke, brain tumour and drug and alcohol abuse.

Dr Sita Jaya Lakshmi, consultant neurologist with KIMS, said, “Inexpensive and effective medication can be provided to people suffering from the disease. More than 70 per cent of the people can lead a normal life with proper medication at the right time. The most common cause of epilepsy in India is due to infection. Consumption of raw food items could lead to cysticercosis due to improper hygiene. Another reason is due to the problems during delivery, where children develop epilepsy.”

Epilepsy patients are three to six times more prone to death than an average individual. Jerks during epilepsy could lead to accidents. About 50 million people all over the world suffer from epilepsy. Proper medication could leave patients to lead a normal life.

Continuous counseling is given along with medication to patients with epilepsy. Once the psychologist observes abnormality then the patient is send to psychiatrist for further treatment. 70 per cent of people can lead a normal life if epilepsy is detected at early stages and treated.

By:Divya Vallabhaneni