Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The purpose of this occasion is to support individuals with epilepsy and their families. What do you know about epilepsy? How can each of us help those affected by this condition? To find answers to these questions, don’t miss reading the rest of the article.

What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic, non-communicable brain disorder that affects approximately 50 million people worldwide. This condition is characterized by recurrent seizures, which involve brief episodes of involuntary movements that may affect a part of the body (partial) or the entire body (generalized). Epileptic seizures are sometimes accompanied by loss of consciousness and an inability to control bowel or bladder functions.

The frequency of these seizures varies, ranging from once a year to several times a day. However, it’s important to note that a single seizure does not necessarily indicate epilepsy (over 10% of people worldwide experience at least one seizure during their lifetime).

Interestingly, epilepsy is one of the oldest known medical conditions, with evidence of its existence dating back to 4000 BCE. For centuries, fear, discrimination, and social stigma have affected individuals with epilepsy, significantly impacting their quality of life.

What Causes Epilepsy?

Sometimes, epilepsy has no clear cause and is not linked to a specific disease. In some cases, a genetic factor may lead to the condition. This type of epilepsy is known as idiopathic epilepsy.

However, for other individuals, epilepsy may be a symptom of an underlying condition. Various factors can contribute to the development of epilepsy, including:

• Head injury
• Infections such as meningitis
• Brain tumors
• Brain hemorrhages
• Strokes
• Birth injuries
• Brain development issues during childhood

This type of epilepsy is referred to as secondary or symptomatic epilepsy.

First Aid During a Tonic-Clonic Seizure

A tonic-clonic seizure occurs when a person falls to the ground, loses consciousness, and experiences jerking or shaking movements. If someone around you experiences a seizure, consider the following steps to care for individuals with epilepsy:

• Protect them from injury: Remove any dangerous objects from their surroundings and place a cushion under their head.
• Do not restrain them: Avoid holding them down or moving them unless absolutely necessary.
• Do not put anything in their mouth.
• Reassure them: Stay calm and remain with them until they regain consciousness.
• After the seizure stops, turn their head to one side to ensure their airway remains clear.
• If the individual wears glasses, gently remove them.

In most cases, there is no need to call emergency services unless:

• The seizure does not stop after 5 minutes.
• The person experiences another seizure without recovering from the first.
• The individual is injured, has difficulty breathing, or requires urgent medical care for any other reason.

What Is Our Role on World Epilepsy Day?

World Epilepsy Day is a great opportunity to support individuals living with epilepsy and help raise awareness in society. Each of us can play a role in this global occasion in various ways:

• Raising Awareness: We can share information about epilepsy through social media, blogs, or conversations with friends and family. By educating others about epilepsy, its causes, and how to assist patients, we can help ensure that people respond effectively and remain calm when witnessing a seizure.
• Spreading Awareness Using the Color Purple: Purple is the color designated for raising awareness about epilepsy. On World Epilepsy Day, we can wear purple clothing or ribbons to help spread awareness and show support.

• Organizing or Participating in Events: Consider organizing workshops or seminars to educate others about epilepsy. These events provide a great opportunity to learn more, connect with others, and demonstrate solidarity with individuals affected by epilepsy.
• Fundraising: Participating in fundraising activities or supporting organizations that assist people with epilepsy is another impactful way to contribute on World Epilepsy Day.