NATIONAL EPILEPSY DAY

Epilepsy, also known as seizure disorder, is the fourth most common neurological disorder and one of the oldest-known medical conditions. National Epilepsy Day, observed on November 17, is the brainchild of the “International Bureau for Epilepsy” and the “International League Against Epilepsy". Almost every year, a theme is chosen to guide the events of the day. National Epilepsy Awareness Day aims to increase the public’s knowledge of a neurological condition affecting nearly 50 million people worldwide.

Recurrent seizures in epilepsy patients occur when uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain interferes with normal brain function and causes a brief halt in message delivery to the brain.

The following are general symptoms of a seizure or warning signs that you may be experiencing seizures -

-Staring

-Jerking movements of the arms and legs

-Stiffening of the body

-Loss of consciousness

-Breathing problems or breathing stops

-Loss of bowel or bladder control etc.

The goal of treatment for this condition is to manage, halt, or limit the frequency of the seizures without obstructing your normal development and growth.

This may include-

-Medication

-Frequent blood draws testing is usually required to check the level of the medication in the body

-Regular urine tests to see how the body is responding to the medication

-Electroencephalogram (EEG) to monitor how the medication is helping the electrical problems in the brain after surgery.

Eliminating the stigma attached to epilepsy is a key objective for the day. Those with epilepsy can lead normal lives, especially when their epilepsy is controlled. The stigma attached to epilepsy dates back in time. In ancient Rome, people did not eat or drink from the same plates or pots as people living with epilepsy. Up until the second half of the 20th century, in some parts of Africa, epilepsy was believed to be contagious and the result of possession, witchcraft, or poisoning. Even now, it is frowned upon in several parts of the world. However, "International Epilepsy Day" is now commemorated in more than 130 countries, and on November 17, India honors "National Epilepsy Day," all thanks to increasing information.

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