National Epilepsy Day 2024: Causes, symptoms and all you need to know about the neurological disorder

National Epilepsy Day 2024: Causes, symptoms and all you need to know about the neurological disorder

National Epilepsy Day is observed on November 17 to spread awareness about the neurological disorder that affects millions worldwide. Epilepsy refers to a condition in which the affected person faces frequent seizures. This chronic non-communicable disease can affect people of all ages, and each age group has its unique concerns and problems.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are around 50 million people across the world who have epilepsy. Of this, 80% with the disorder live in low- and middle-income countries.

Significance

The day is observed to educate people about the challenges faced by individuals with epilepsy and also emphasise early diagnosis and treatment. It raises awareness of the disorder, what it is, how it can be treated, and what is needed to bring treatment to all people who need it. The day aims to strengthen efforts to improve care and reduce the impact of this disorder.

Theme

Every year, the Epilepsy Foundation of India dedicates a theme for the day. However, the theme for this year to mark National Epilepsy Day is yet to be announced.

Symptoms

The temporary symptoms of epilepsy include loss of awareness or consciousness, disturbances of movement, sensation (including vision, hearing and taste), mood, or other cognitive functions. People with the disorder tend to have more physical problems, like fractures and bruising from injuries related to seizures, as well as higher rates of psychological conditions, including anxiety and depression.

Causes

It is not a contagious disorder, even though many underlying disease mechanisms can lead to epilepsy. According to WHO, the cause of the disease is still unknown in about 50% of the cases globally. The causes of epilepsy are divided into categories such as structural, genetic, infectious, metabolic, immune and unknown. These include:

Brain damage from prenatal or perinatal causes.

Congenital abnormalities or genetic conditions with associated brain malformations.

A severe head injury.

A stroke that restricts the amount of oxygen to the brain.

An infection of the brain such as meningitis, encephalitis, or neurocysticercosis.

Certain genetic syndromes.

A brain tumour.

Treatment

With proper antiseizure medication, up to 70% of persons with epilepsy could become seizure-free. After two years without seizures, discontinuing antiseizure medication should be considered.

Prevention

As per the WHO report, around 25% of epilepsy cases are potentially preventable. This includes preventing head injury, which is the most effective way to prevent post-traumatic epilepsy.

Adequate perinatal care can reduce new cases of epilepsy caused by birth injury. Drugs and other measures for lowering a sick child’s body temperature can reduce the risk of febrile seizures.

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