Myths and stigmas around epilepsy make the patients lives difficult
There are a lot of misconceptions in the world surrounding epilepsy. According to experts, the condition is a neurological disorder that manifests as recurrent seizures and affects millions worldwide. Even though there is a lot of information and knowledge of its medicine, there are a lot of myths and stigmas that surround the disorder, making their lives more complicated for its victims.
“It is important to dispel myths and understand the reality of epilepsy; it may make society better informed and more supportive,” Dr. Santosh Sontakke, Consultant Neuro-physician, Ruby Hall Clinic, told Times Now. And so he busts some misinformation for you.
Myth 1
Epilepsy is a Mental Illness
Reality
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder caused by abnormal brain activity. “It is not a psychiatric condition, though individuals with epilepsy may experience anxiety or depression due to the social and emotional impact of their condition,” said Dr. Sontakke.
Myth 2
People with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives
Reality
Most people with epilepsy manage their condition effectively with medication and lifestyle adjustments. According to doctors, they can easily pursue education, careers, and relationships just like anyone else.
Myth 3
Seizures are always convulsive
Reality
According to Dr. Sontakke, not all seizures involve violent convulsions. “Some seizures may cause brief lapses in awareness, confusion, or unusual movements.”
It is important to know about the different types of seizures, which helps improve response and support.
Myth 4
Epilepsy is always inherited
Reality
Most forms of epilepsy are acquired, which means that they can be caused by conditions like brain injury, infection, stroke, or other causes. Not everyone with a family history of epilepsy will contract the disorder.
Myth 5
Flashing lights always causes seizures
Reality
While there is a condition that says photosensitive epilepsy can affect around one percent of people with epilepsy it is not general for everyone. “A trigger may be sleep deprivation, stress, forgetting to take their medication or an illness,” said Dr. Sontakke.
Myth 6
Hold someone down while they have a seizure
Reality
Restraints can hurt people during seizures. The best approach is to safely position the individual by moving around sharp objects and placing the individual on his/her side until the seizure subsides.
Myth 7
Epilepsy is contagious
Reality
"No, it is not,” said the doctor. Epilepsy is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person. It is a brain disorder with various causes, none of which involve contagion.
Myth 8
People with epilepsy cannot work or drive
Reality
Many individuals with epilepsy lead successful professional lives. In many countries, people with well-controlled epilepsy can obtain a driver’s license, provided they meet medical safety requirements.
How to break the stigma
According to Dr. Sontakke, to create a more inclusive society, you must:
Educate
Promote awareness through schools, workplaces, and media.
Support
Encourage acceptance and provide resources for those affected.
Advocate
Push for policy changes that protect the rights of individuals with epilepsy.
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