Today, more than 50 million people worldwide suffer from epilepsy. People with epilepsy face a lot of stigma in society because of the myths surrounding the disease. Stigma diminishes quality of life and profound trauma for patients who are already suffering. Additionally, a lack of awareness limits people from knowing how to give first aid to those with seizures.
What is epilepsy?
Dr. Abhishek Juneja, Senior Consultant Neurologist – Maharaja Agrasen Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Juneja’s Neuro center, said epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is also known as epilepsy. There must be at least two seizures that are not caused by any other medical condition. to diagnose epilepsy
What are seizures?
Seizures occur due to abnormal and excessive electrical activity in the brain. It may occur due to brain injury, infection, metabolic disorders. or genetic causes Many times the cause may not be known.
Experts conclude that the signs and symptoms of seizures can include:
* gaze spell
* Eye or face twitching
* Jerky movements of the arms and legs
* loss of consciousness or awareness
* Urinary incontinence
* biting tongue
Symptoms can vary according to the type of seizure. twitching of the eyes or face Unilateral twitching of the hand or foot may occur in focal seizures. While the tonic posture is followed by jerky movements of the entire limb, it usually occurs in generalized seizures.
Read more: Fatima Sana Shaikh opens up about her battle with epilepsy She said she had learned to “live around it”.
First aid for seizures
People around people with epilepsy should know how to manage seizures.
live: Stay with the convulsor until he regaines consciousness. Seizures generally last only a few minutes. Call an ambulance immediately to save important time.
safe: keep that person safe You should bring sharp objects or anything. that are in the vicinity that may hurt the patient out The patient should be kept in a safe place. well lit and is an open area
side: Turn the patient over to one side after the spasm subsides. This will prevent the tongue from receding and obstructing the airway. make the patient breathe comfortably loosen clothing around the neck
Dr Junja recommends avoiding inserting or inserting objects such as spoons or sticks into the mouth of a person with epileptic seizures.
Watch this video about first aid for seizures.
need awareness about epilepsy
“We should make a difference in the lives of patients with epilepsy by spreading awareness about the disease. About first aid that may be given to a patient with epilepsy and refute false beliefs about this symptom, ”said Dr. Junja.
When it comes to treating epilepsy You must know that it can be treated and managed with safe and effective medications.
Another important point is the fact that people with epilepsy tend to have psychological problems. especially depression anxiety and suicidal thoughts
These problems stem from the difficulty these people face in dealing with the condition.
Myths and misconceptions about epilepsy have been around for far too long. encourages stigma about this disease People are just starting to open up about their illness.
“If one suffers from humiliation It may interfere with your willingness to undergo treatment. This can destroy an individual’s physical, mental and emotional well-being,” he added.
Therefore, there is a need to increase awareness about the symptoms, diagnosis and management of epilepsy. to reduce social barriers to treatment People with epilepsy can still lead normal and productive lives with social support.
