Confronting Stigma, Embracing Strength
Taking on Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that manifests through recurring seizures, caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can vary in intensity, duration, and symptoms, affecting a person’s consciousness, movement, or sensation. Epilepsy can arise due to various factors, including genetic predisposition, brain injury, infections, or developmental disorders. In India, epilepsy is a significant health concern, with an estimated prevalence of around 1 to 2 percent of the population. Despite its prevalence, misconceptions and stigmas surrounding epilepsy often hinder proper diagnosis, treatment, and support for those affected.1
Know more about Epilepsy2
We know that Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which a person has two or more unprovoked seizures that occur more than 24 hours apart. A seizure is an excessive surge of electrical activity in the brain that can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on which parts of the brain are involved. “Unprovoked” seizures are those that are not brought on by a clear cause such as alcohol withdrawal, heart problems, or hypoglycemia, which is when a person has extremely low blood sugar levels.
Seizures may be the result of genetics or a brain injury, but often their cause is unknown. The words “seizure disorder” and “epilepsy” are often used interchangeably. However, “provoked” seizures, such as those due to severe hypoglycemia, are not considered to be forms of epilepsy.
References:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4001222/
2. https://nyulangone.org/conditions/epilepsy-seizure-disorders/types
3. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/epilepsy/evaluation-of-a-firsttime-seizure.
Issued in public interest by : Sanofi India Pvt. Ltd.
MAT-IN-2302406-V1.0-10/2023