Mumbai-based neurologists have cautioned against warning signs of epilepsy due to low awareness levels. Epilepsy impacts the brain leading to frequent seizures. It is seen in a large number of people and many cases go unreported. Epilepsy is a brain disease that causes abnormal hyperexcitability of brain cells leading to seizures. It is the need of the hour to seek timely intervention and manage the condition.
People of all age groups can suffer from this condition. The symptoms of epilepsy are jerking and shaking which means one will get fit. Furthermore, there will be stiffness, sudden collapse, and a tingling feeling in the arms or legs. Some people may also not remember what has happened before and during that time as they pass out.
According to Dr Kavita Barhate, neurologist, SRV Hospital, Dombivali, Mumbai, “A traumatic brain injury, serious illness, fever, stroke, low oxygen supply to the brain, brain tumor or cyst, dementia, HIV and AIDS and meningitis, drug abuse, and alcohol misuse are some of the reasons behind the occurrence of this condition. Moreover, this condition gets triggered due to lack of sleep, illness, fever, stress, bright lights, certain medications, skipping meals, overeating, and low blood sugar levels. It will be essential for you to recognize the signs and symptoms and get timely treatment without any delay.”
Talking about the complications, experts say that one can suffer from serious injuries because of falling after getting a seizure. Apart from that, other complications are depression, choking on food and anxiety. Thus, one should consult the doctor when one gets a seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes or if one has any serious injuries or breathing difficulties.
Highlighting the role of diagnosis, Dr Barhate says, “The doctor will ask for an MRI and EEG for diagnosing the causes of seizures. But the diagnosis of epilepsy is essentially clinical. Normal MRI or EEG does not rule out the diagnosis of epilepsy.”
“It will be imperative for you to adopt a well-balanced lifestyle. Try to exercise on a daily basis in order to stay healthy and control seizures. Exercising can also help you to de-stress and boost your mood. Also, relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation can relieve stress. Make sure to sleep well, maintain an optimum weight, and avoid smoking, alcohol, and drug abuse,” Dr Barhate concludes.
Source: pharmabiz.com, Shardul Nautiyal
