Epilepsy (seizure disorder) is a common condition affecting about 1 in 100 people, amounting to roughly 1% of world’s population. It consists of a group of neurological disorders causing seizures, triggered by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy is very common in newborns and in the elderly, but every age group is affected.
Epilepsy (seizure disorder) is a common condition affecting about 1 in 100 people, amounting to roughly 1% of world’s population. It consists of a group of neurological disorders causing seizures, triggered by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Epilepsy is very common in newborns and in the elderly, but every age group is affected.
Many a time the cause of epilepsy is not known. Head injuries, brain tumors, brain infections and stroke may all cause epilepsy.
Seizures can be focal or generalized. Focal seizures start in one part of the brain. Affected people experience intense emotions or altered sensorium or repetitive body motions like chewing or lip smacking. In generalized seizures, electrical activity spreads rapidly through out the brain, leading to loss of consciousness.
The following are some of the myths about epilepsy.
Myth 1: Epilepsy always runs in families
Fact 1: No. Very rarely epilepsy has a genetic predisposition. Most children of people with epilepsy don’t develop seizures. Epilepsy should not be a reason not to have children.
Myth 2: People with epilepsy cannot marry.
Fact 2: No. There is no reason why an epileptic person cannot get married, have children and lead a normal life.
Myth 3: Tongue can be swallowed during a seizure.
Fact 3: No. It is impossible to swallow one’s tongue, but it can be injured during an attack.
Myth 4: One should force something into the mouth during an attack.
Fact 4: No. Nothing should be put. By thrusting something one can damage or break the teeth.
Myth 5: People should be restrained during an attack.
Fact 5: No. They should never be restrained. They should be made to lie on the sides, so that breathing would not be compromised.
Myth 6: Epilepsy is contagious.
Fact 6: No. Epilepsy is not contagious.
Myth 7: People with epilepsy cannot work.
Fact 7: No. With adequate treatment seizures can be adequately controlled and they can work in almost all the fields.
Myth 8: Only kids get epilepsy.
Fact 8: No. Epilepsy can affect individuals of any age.
Myth 9: Epilepsy is very rare.
Fact 9: No. Epilepsy is a common disorder. But awareness in the society is limited.
Myth 10: if one has a single seizure he can be called an epileptic.
Fact 10: No. A person is diagnosed to have epilepsy only if he has two or more unprovoked seizures.
Myth 11: Inserting an iron rod or a key in ones hand can control an attack of seizure.
Fact 11: No. This is totally false and there is no evidence e