Epilepsy Explained: Myths, Facts, and Effective Care

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, yet it remains surrounded by myths and misunderstandings. Affecting over 50 million people globally, epilepsy is a condition where abnormal electrical activity in the brain causes recurrent seizures. Despite its prevalence, many still view epilepsy with stigma or fear. This article aims to separate myths from facts and highlight the effective care options available today.

Understanding Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterised by repeated seizures. Seizures can range from brief lapses of awareness (like staring spells) to full-body convulsions. Not all seizures mean epilepsy—only those that occur more than once without a clear cause (like fever or trauma) are considered epileptic.

Seizures are classified into:

• Focal seizures (begin in one part of the brain)

• Generalised seizures (involve both hemispheres)

Common Myths vs. Facts

Myth 1: Epilepsy is a mental illness.
Fact: Epilepsy is a neurological condition, not psychiatric. It’s caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Myth 2: People with epilepsy can’t live normal lives.
Fact: With proper treatment, most people with epilepsy live full, productive lives—working, driving, and participating in daily activities.

Myth 3: You should put something in a person’s mouth during a seizure.
Fact: Never put anything in their mouth. Instead, turn them on their side and protect their head.

Myth 4: Seizures are always dramatic.
Fact: Some seizures are subtle, such as a brief loss of awareness, eye blinking, or lip-smacking.

Myth 5: Epilepsy is contagious.
Fact: Epilepsy is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through any kind of contact.

Diagnosing Epilepsy

Neurologists diagnose epilepsy using:

• Detailed medical history

• EEG (Electroencephalogram) to detect abnormal brain activity

• MRI or CT scans to rule out structural causes

Identifying the type of seizure and its origin in the brain helps tailor the right treatment.

Effective Treatment Options

1. Anti-Seizure Medications (ASMs):
   These help control seizures in up to 70% of patients.

2. Surgical Options:
   For drug-resistant epilepsy, surgery may remove the seizure-causing brain area.

3. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS):
   A device implanted under the skin stimulates the vagus nerve to reduce seizures.

4. Ketogenic Diet:
   High-fat, low-carb diet shown to reduce seizures in children and some adults.

5. Spinal Cord Stimulation & Neuromodulation:
   Modern, minimally invasive therapies are now being explored for seizure control.

Living with Epilepsy

• Avoid triggers: Stress, lack of sleep, alcohol, or flashing lights.

• Maintain a medication schedule: Never skip doses.

• Stay informed and supported: Join support groups, and educate family and friends.

When to Seek Expert Help

If seizures are frequent, uncontrolled, or affecting quality of life, it's important to consult a neurologist. At Neurology and Pain Management Clinic (NPMC) in Delhi, Dr. Gautam Arora provides comprehensive epilepsy care—ranging from diagnosis and medication to advanced neuromodulation therapies.

Conclusion:

Epilepsy is manageable. Dispelling myths and embracing facts is the first step toward better understanding and treatment. With expert care and the right lifestyle support, people with epilepsy can live safe, fulfilling lives.