The enduring results of epilepsy attain past seizures, affecting interpersonal relationships, profession, funds, and social standing. Alongside different components, this affect could result in emotions of dejection, disinterest, and despair. Regrettably, epilepsy instances steadily escape detection, are underreported, and go undertreated, intensifying the issue of rehabilitating people with epilepsy.

One of the main neurologists, from Amrita Hospital, Kochi, expressed concern over the rising underdiagnosis of epilepsy. She has highlighted the present development of an growing older inhabitants, anticipating an increase within the total incidence and prevalence of epilepsy. Approximately 80% of epilepsy sufferers reside in low- and middle-income international locations, notably in poor socioeconomic strata. Many newly recognized epilepsy sufferers are older people.

Dr. Siby Gopinath, Epileptologist and Professor of Neurology at Amrita Hospital, Kochi, emphasised the pressing want for motion contemplating current findings on the state of epilepsy in India. She stated, “Epilepsy is without doubt one of the frequent neurological problems, and in India itself, we have now greater than 1,00,00,000 sufferers affected with epilepsy. India faces a profound therapy hole, leaving 22% untreated in city areas and a staggering 90% in rural areas. However, the gravity of the state of affairs extends past numbers. The significance of addressing the complexities of epilepsy, to make sure complete and efficient healthcare options for the affected inhabitants, can’t be overstated.’’

Various components contribute to the chance of epilepsy in youthful age, together with untimely delivery, low delivery weight, low oxygen or blood glucose ranges at delivery, structural malformations within the mind and so forth. Additional threat components contain, infections like meningitis, cerebral palsy, developmental disabilities, autism, a household historical past of epilepsy. Conditions like stroke, mind tumors and late-stage dementia could cause epilepsy in previous age.

Epilepsy presents with a myriad of signs. lack of consciousness jerking of palms and legs, falls, and frothing from the mouth, lack of bowel and bladder management are classical signs. Notably, seizures can range, with some manifesting as a sudden interruption in speech and a vacant stare, fast blinking of the eyes, and confusion, unexplained worry, visible hallucinations, underlining the multifaceted nature of epilepsy.

Dispelling misconceptions, Dr. Gopinath emphasizes that epilepsy is a neurological dysfunction, not a psychological dysfunction. Epilepsy can develop at any age, and seizures can manifest in numerous kinds. Contrary to beliefs, epilepsy doesn’t at all times contain convulsive actions and doesn’t essentially have an effect on mental capability. While some instances could have a genetic element, epilepsy just isn’t at all times inherited. Treatment approaches range, with individualized plans incorporating drugs, surgical procedure, or dietary modifications.

She additional added, “The management of epilepsy predominantly relies on anti-seizure medications, with positive responses observed in 70-75% of patients. Medications are customized based on factors like epilepsy type, age, and gender, occupation of the patient. For the remaining 30%, surgical options with epilepsy are less capable. Regrettably, caregivers often lack the knowledge to help them to care for a family member with epilepsy. there is a notable absence of education and awareness in the general public on how to support those living with epilepsy.”

Screening for epilepsy is significant to assist in figuring out threat components, treating it early and enabling preventive measures. These embrace implementing healthcare practices, cautious childbirth administration and important vaccination protocols. Avoiding threat components like, leisure medication, and alcohol can be useful in stopping epilepsy. Early detection and consciousness contribute to well timed intervention, enhancing total well-being for these affected by epilepsy.