Epilepsy Myths And Facts: Expert Insights On What You Need To Know

Breaking the stigma surrounding epilepsy starts with education and awareness. Understanding the facts can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for people living with epilepsy. By debunking myths, we can ensure that individuals with epilepsy receive the respect, care, and opportunities they deserve. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Yatin Sagvekar, Consultant Neurologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, discussed common myths and facts about epilepsy.

Breaking The Stigma: Myths vs. Facts About Epilepsy

Myth 1: Epilepsy Is A Mental Illness

Fact: Epilepsy is a neurological condition caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is not a psychiatric disorder or a sign of mental instability. While some people with epilepsy may experience mental health challenges like anxiety or depression, these are separate issues that can be managed with appropriate care.

Myth 2: Epilepsy Is Contagious

Fact: Epilepsy is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from one person to another. It is often caused by genetic factors, brain injuries, infections, or unknown reasons. Understanding this fact helps eliminate unnecessary fear and discrimination against those living with the condition.

Myth 3: People With Epilepsy Cannot Lead Normal Lives

Fact: With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most people with epilepsy can lead active, fulfilling lives. Many individuals with epilepsy have successful careers, participate in sports, and engage in social activities. Medications, therapy, and, in some cases, surgery can help control seizures effectively.

Myth 4: All Seizures Involve Convulsions

Fact: While some seizures involve convulsions, epilepsy manifests in different ways. Seizures can vary from brief staring spells (absence seizures) to sudden muscle stiffness (tonic seizures) or loss of awareness (complex partial seizures). Recognizing different seizure types is essential for providing appropriate support.

Myth 5: During A Seizure, You Should Restrain The Person

Fact: Restraining someone during a seizure can cause injury. Instead, it is important to keep the person safe by moving nearby objects away, placing them on their side if possible, and timing the seizure. Most seizures stop on their own within a few minutes. If a seizure lasts longer than five minutes, emergency medical help should be sought.

Myth 6: People With Epilepsy Should Avoid All Physical Activities

Fact: Many people with epilepsy can safely participate in physical activities and exercise, which may even help reduce seizure frequency. While some activities like swimming may require supervision, a healthy lifestyle is encouraged.

Myth 7: Seizures Are Always Triggered By Flashing Lights

Fact: While some individuals with photosensitive epilepsy are triggered by flashing lights, this is not true for most people with epilepsy. Seizures can be triggered by factors like stress, sleep deprivation, missed medications, or illness.