Facts about Epilepsy you didn’t know
Epilepsy is a neurological disease which means it affects the brain and causes patients to have recurring seizures. Epilepsy Foundation states that it is considered to be one of the most common severe brain disorders.
While the condition can affect anyone at any age, the Kenya Association for the Welfare of People with Epilepsy (KAWE) states that patients can stop having seizures.
Early diagnosis can reduce the chances of patients getting seizures, the effects of the seizures, make patients’ lives better and help prevent sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).
Living with epilepsy is more than just knowing your type of seizures or what medicine to take. People must learn how to respond to seizures in a variety of situations and be prepared to handle whatever comes your way. Living with seizures also means learning how to handle the way epilepsy affects your life including your social, emotional and physical well-being.
The best way to manage your seizures is to take a practical approach to emphasizing preparation, prevention, and teamwork.
Also Read: @ 4 Facts about PREP that you didn’t know
History
Epilepsy Awareness Month has been celebrated every November since 1969 in the US and is quickly becoming a global trend. While creating awareness was its main mission, the campaign now focuses on public education to reduce discrimination against sufferers and debunk myths surrounding this condition.
Even though this is a recognized campaign in the US, we as Kenyans can also use this time to support the campaign.
Treatment
Many different medicines that can prevent or stop seizures. These are sometimes called anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) or anti-seizure drugs. They will successfully control seizures for about 7 out of 10 people with epilepsy.
Some medicines tend to work better for certain kinds of seizures than for others. If one medicine fails, another may work better. A combination of medications may be tried too. The medications don’t fix the problem that causes seizures. Instead, they work to stop seizures from occurring.
This month being epilepsy awareness month, you can show your support to anyone suffering from epilepsy and also learn something about it.
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