World Epilepsy Day: 9 myths and facts about the brain disorder

Epilepsy is a neurological dysfunction characterised by recurrent seizures, that are sudden bursts {of electrical} exercise within the mind. These seizures can differ in depth and kind, affecting people otherwise. The affect of epilepsy on human life may be profound, extending past the bodily manifestations of seizures. It will probably result in social stigma, restricted employment alternatives, and challenges in training and day by day actions. Moreover, managing epilepsy typically requires lifelong remedy and common medical supervision. Attributable to its intricate nature, this situation is surrounded by myths and misconceptions.

On World Epilepsy Day, Well being Photographs received in contact with Neurologist Dr Kunal Bahrani, to debunk widespread myths about epilepsy.

9 myths about epilepsy

Listed here are 9 myths about epilepsy that it’s best to cease believing:

Delusion 1: Epilepsy is contagious

Truth: One of the vital pervasive myths about epilepsy is that it may be transmitted from individual to individual by means of contact. However epilepsy isn’t contagious. It’s a neurological situation brought on by varied elements, equivalent to genetics, mind damage, infections, or developmental problems.

Delusion 2: Epilepsy is a psychological sickness

Truth: One other false impression is that epilepsy is a type of psychological sickness or an indication of mental incapacity. Whereas epilepsy can coexist with psychological well being situations or developmental problems, it’s primarily a neurological dysfunction affecting the mind’s electrical exercise.

Delusion 3: Epilepsy solely impacts youngsters

Truth: Whereas epilepsy is commonly identified in childhood, it could actually have an effect on individuals of all ages. The onset of epilepsy can happen at any stage of life, from infancy to previous age. Some people might develop epilepsy later in life as a consequence of elements equivalent to head trauma, stroke, or mind tumors.

Delusion 4: Epilepsy is a demise sentence

Truth: Regardless of advances in medical remedy, many individuals consider that epilepsy is a life-threatening situation. Whereas seizures can pose dangers, particularly if left untreated or poorly managed, nearly all of individuals with epilepsy can lead lengthy and wholesome lives with correct remedy, way of life modifications, and seizure administration methods.

Right here’s your helpful information to epilepsy and seizures

Delusion 5: Individuals with epilepsy can not reside independently

Truth: One other delusion perpetuated about epilepsy is that people with the situation are incapable of residing independently. Whereas epilepsy might current challenges in sure conditions, many individuals with epilepsy lead impartial lives, pursue greater training and keep profitable careers.

Delusion 6: Seizures are at all times triggered by flashing lights

Truth: Whereas photosensitive epilepsy does exist, not all people with epilepsy are delicate to flashing lights or visible stimuli. Solely a small proportion of individuals with epilepsy expertise seizures triggered by particular visible patterns or flickering lights. For almost all of people with epilepsy, seizures usually tend to be triggered by elements equivalent to stress, sleep deprivation, remedy modifications, or hormonal fluctuations.

Delusion 7: Epilepsy can’t be handled successfully

Truth: Opposite to in style perception, epilepsy is a extremely treatable situation for a lot of people. Antiepileptic medicines, way of life modifications, and, in some circumstances, surgical interventions can successfully management seizures and enhance high quality of life.

Delusion 8: People with epilepsy can not have a standard life

Truth: Presumably probably the most dangerous delusion of all is the concept having epilepsy prevents an individual from residing a standard, fulfilling life. Whereas epilepsy might require sure lodging and changes, it doesn’t outline an individual’s id or restrict their potential. When individuals with epilepsy have entry to high quality medical care, social help, and training, they will obtain their goals, construct significant connections, and take part in a wide range of actions.

You may have a wholesome intercourse life even with epilepsy! Right here’s how

Delusion 9: It’s best to restrain somebody having a seizure

Truth: Whereas it’s necessary to make sure the particular person having a seizure is secure from hurt (for instance, by shifting objects away from them), restraining them can probably trigger damage.

Now, be sure to don’t fall for these myths about epilepsy!