Epilepsy’s long-term effects; impacts relationships and mental health, says expert

INTRO: Beyond seizures
Epilepsy has long-term consequences that impair interpersonal connections, job, income, and social position. This influence, in conjunction with other circumstances, may contribute to feelings of dejection, disinterest, and sadness. Unfortunately, epilepsy instances typically go undetected, unreported, and untreated, compounding the difficulty of rehabilitating people with epilepsy.
Approximately 80% of epilepsy sufferers live in low- and middle-income nations, primarily in the lowest socioeconomic strata. Many newly diagnosed epilepsy patients are beyond the age of 50.
“Epilepsy is one of the common neurological disorders, and in India itself, we have more than 1,00,00,000 patients affected with epilepsy. India faces a profound treatment gap, leaving 22% untreated in urban areas and a staggering 90% in rural regions,” says
Dr. Siby Gopinath, Epileptologist and Professor of Neurology at Amrita Hospital adding, “The gravity of the situation extends beyond numbers. The importance of addressing the complexities of epilepsy, to ensure comprehensive and effective healthcare solutions for the affected population, cannot be overstated.’’
Various factors contribute to the risk of epilepsy in younger age, include:
* premature birth,
* low birth weight,
* low oxygen or blood glucose levels at birth,
* structural malformations in the brain etc.
* infections like meningitis, cerebral palsy, developmental disabilities, autism, a family history of epilepsy.
* Conditions like stroke, brain tumors and late-stage dementia can cause epilepsy in old age.
Symptoms
* loss of consciousness jerking of hands and legs,
* falls, and frothing from the mouth,
* loss of bowel and bladder control are classical symptoms.
“Notably, seizures can vary, with some manifesting as a sudden interruption in speech and a vacant stare, rapid blinking of the eyes, and confusion, unexplained fear, visual hallucinations, underlining the multifaceted nature of epilepsy,” says Dr. Gopinath.
Misconceptions
Epilepsy, according to Dr. Gopinath, is a neurological condition rather than a mental illness. “Seizures can take many different forms, and epilepsy can begin at any age. Contrary to popular assumption, epilepsy does not always result in convulsions or impair thinking abilities. Epilepsy is not generally inherited, however, there may be a genetic component in certain circumstances. Different treatment modalities are used; tailored regimens may include drugs, surgery, or dietary adjustments,” she says adding, “The management of epilepsy predominantly relies on anti-seizure medications, with positive responses observed in 70-75% of patients.”
HIGHLIGHTS
Medications are customised based on factors like epilepsy type, age, and gender, occupation of the patient.
Screening
To assist identify risk factors, treat epilepsy early, and enable preventative measures, epilepsy screening is essential.
* These include putting healthcare practises into practise, managing births carefully, and following necessary vaccine schedules.
* Preventing epilepsy also involves avoiding risk factors including alcohol and recreational drugs.
* For those who are affected with epilepsy, early detection and awareness are crucial to prompt care and improved overall well-being.