Thrive Beyond the Clutches of Epilepsy

Defy Limitations

Understanding your epilepsy, beyond seizures, will help you make informed decisions about your lifestyle and implement any changes needed to reduce risks and provide you with a good quality of life. It will also help you better communicate your needs to the important people in your life.1

Common Challenges2

People with epilepsy often face various challenges that can impact their daily lives.

Some common challenges include:

Stigma and Misunderstanding:
Many people still hold misconceptions about epilepsy, leading to stigma and discrimination.

Seizure Management:
The unpredictability of seizures can affect activities, driving, and work or school attendance.

Medication Side Effects:
Some anti-seizure medications can have side effects that impact mood, energy, or cognitive function.

Emotional Well-being:
Epilepsy can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem due to the condition’s impact on daily life.

Social Isolation:
Fear of having a seizure in public or concern about how others will react can lead to isolation.

Employment and Education:
Seizures and related challenges may affect job opportunities or school performance.

Driving Restrictions:
Many countries impose driving restrictions on people with epilepsy due to safety concerns.

Treatment Access:
Limited access to healthcare, proper diagnosis, and treatment can be barriers for some individuals.

Relationships:
Managing epilepsy can strain relationships due to the impact it has on daily life.

Sleep Issues:
Epilepsy can lead to sleep disturbances, and sleep deprivation can trigger seizures.

Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that includes medical care, emotional support, education, and fostering understanding within the community.

First Aid for Seizures

As a caregiver or as a family member, it could be scary to see a loved one having a seizure.

However, in such times, you must stay calm and do these simple things to help them:

  • If they are lying on the ground, put something soft below their  head.3 
  • If the person is sitting in a wheelchair, put the brakes and seatbelt on and cushion their head. However, do not try to move them.3 

 

  • Move nearby objects away to prevent injury. If there is any tight clothing around the neck, such as a collar button or tie, remove it. This will help the patient breathe.3,4 
  • Do not put anything in their mouth, such as water, food, or medicines, unless they recovered completely. This is because food, water, or medicines can go into their lungs instead of mount, causing choking.3,4
  • Make sure they are breathing properly.4
  • Do not try to stop the person’s movements during a seizure.4
  • After their body stops shaking, turn them to the side. However, if they had food or fluid in their mouth while having a seizure, put them on their side immediately.3,5
  • Until the patient recovers, stay with them and talk to them calmly.3
  • If possible, note the time when the seizure started and ended.3
  • If they fall asleep after the attack, don’t disturb them; however, keep a check on their breathing.4
  • Call for emergency medical help if the seizure has lasted for more than 5 minutes, the person has not regained consciousness fully, or if they have become seriously injured during the seizure attack.3

Myths and Facts About Epilepsy

Epilepsy has long been shrouded in misconceptions and myths. These myths often give rise to stigma, misunderstanding, and unjust treatment for those affected by epilepsy. It’s crucial to debunk these misconceptions, not only to dispel the shadows of ignorance but also to foster a supportive and empathetic environment for individuals living with epilepsy. By unraveling the truth behind these myths, we pave the way for accurate knowledge, open dialogue, and compassion that can positively impact the lives of millions.6,7

Clearing up these myths fosters understanding and empathy, promoting a more inclusive and informed society for those living with epilepsy.

MYTH

Epilepsy is contagious

FACT

Epilepsy cannot be transmitted from person to person.

References:

1https://nyulangone.org/conditions/epilepsy-seizure-disorders/types
2 www.epilepsy.com/complications-risks
3What to do if someone has a seizure (fit) [Internet]. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/what-to-do-if-someone-has-a-seizure-fit/#:~:text=Support%20them%20gently%20and%20cushion,until%20they%20have%20fully%20recovered. Accessed on 13 Feb 2023.
4General first aid for seizures [Internet]. Available at: https://www.epilepsy.com/recognition/seizure-first-aid. Accessed on Feb 13, 2023.
5Seizures [Internet]. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/seizures#how-to-help. Accessed on 13 Feb 2023.
6https://epilepsyfoundation.org.au/understanding-epilepsy/about-epilepsy/myths-and-misconceptions/
7https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/common-myths-and-facts-on-epilepsy/

 

Issued in public interest by: Sanofi India Pvt. Ltd.

MAT-IN-2302406-V1.0-10/2023