A Silent Struggle : The Hidden Challenges Of Living With Epilepsy

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Epilepsy is a condition that affects millions worldwide, yet many still live in the shadows due to stigma and lack of understanding. This International Epilepsy Day, let's raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and support those affected by this condition in every way possible.

Understanding Epilepsy : A Condition That Affects All Ages

Patients of any age can suffer from epilepsy. However, the key is that it is time for the parents to act swiftly and contact the neurology department for quick treatment of epilepsy as well as for the society to not stigmatize the patients suffering from epilepsy and instead provide them adequate support to overcome the disease.

The Impact Of Stigma And Misunderstanding

Despite being one of the world's oldest known medical conditions, public fear and misunderstanding about epilepsy persist, making many people reluctant to talk about it. That reluctance leads to lives lived in the shadows, lack of understanding about individual risk, discrimination, and a lack of funding for new therapies research. People with epilepsy die prematurely at a higher rate compared to the general population. The most common cause of death from epilepsy is sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, known as SUDEP.

Treatment And Management Of Epilepsy

Dr. Pratham Bysani, Senior Consultant and Neurosurgeon, Vasavi Hospitals, said, "It is important to understand the cause of your seizures to identify the type of epilepsy and the best treatment. Usually, doctors prescribe anti-seizure medicine or other treatment if needed. The most common treatments for epilepsy are medicine, surgical procedures, seizure devices, and a special diet. Anti-seizure medicines limit the spread of seizures in the brain. Sometimes there is a need for a combination of medicines. It's very important to take your medicine as prescribed. When seizures come from a single area of the brain (focal seizures), surgery might be helpful. Removing the affected area may stop future seizures or make them easier to control with medicine."

Overcoming The Misconceptions : More Than Just Seizures

For many people living with epilepsy, the misconceptions and discrimination can be more difficult to overcome than the seizures themselves. This is the reason why International Epilepsy Day is organized on February 10 as an awareness-raising initiative. Doctors say that Epilepsy is more than just seizures and so, this Epilepsy Day, doctors are asking people with epilepsy and those who care for them to share their unmet, everyday needs on their individual Epilepsy Journey. Started in 2015 and organized by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), the day provides a platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with a global audience. The day also calls for all people to advocate for appropriate legislation that will guarantee human rights of people with epilepsy and encourages people with epilepsy to live to their fullest potential.

The Need For Awareness And Action

The International Epilepsy Day seeks to raise awareness and educate the general public on the facts about epilepsy and the urgent need for improved treatment, better care, and greater investment in research. "Currently, the need is to raise awareness of the disease at international and government level as well as in the general public. There is a need to strengthen the epilepsy movement by uniting epilepsy associations in a worldwide campaign to raise visibility on epilepsy and encourage discussion about epilepsy and to provide epilepsy associations with a significant fundraising opportunity" said Dr. Pratham Bysani.

On this International Epilepsy Day, let us all come together to foster understanding, eliminate stigma, and support individuals on their journey with epilepsy. With more awareness, better treatments, and greater advocacy, we can create a world where people with epilepsy are empowered to live to their fullest potential.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.