Everything You Must Know About Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes strange sensations, emotions, and behaviors. Sometimes people have convulsions or muscle spasms while they are sleeping.

There are several causes of epilepsy, such as a brain injury or a family history of seizures. Additionally, epilepsy patients may be born with it or develop it as a young child or during adolescence. Sometimes, there is no obvious explanation for the cause of the disorder.

Epilepsy can create significant challenges in a person's life, but the right treatment and support can help such patients live full and rewarding lives.

Know About National Epilepsy Awareness Month

National Epilepsy Awareness Month is an annual observance held in the United States during November to raise awareness of epilepsy. This observance began in the 1980s, with grassroots organizations using it to raise awareness of the need for increased funding for research into better treatments and a cure for epilepsy.

It also raises awareness of the need to have appropriate diagnostic and treatment services available, along with rehabilitation services. Therefore, this observance is officially endorsed by the International Bureau for Epilepsy.

History of Eplilepsy

14th February has been chosen as International Epilepsy Day because Saint Valentine of Rome, a priest in the third century, helped Christians suffering from the disease.

St. Valentine has given epilepsy sufferers strength and hope by showing that they too can live a full and meaningful life, just as he did.

Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder, after headache, migraine, and Alzheimer's disease. It affects people of all ages, races, religions, and economic levels worldwide.

This disease has affected people throughout history, dating back to as early as 3500 B.C. in ancient Egypt. Hippocrates, a Greek physician who lived from 460 to 377 B.C., was the first to describe seizures and associate them with diseases. He gave the condition its name, which means "to seize" or "take hold of."

Treatment for Epilepsy

Epilepsy is most often treated with anticonvulsant (A type of medication that prevents seizure) drugs to prevent seizures. Initial treatment usually involves taking one drug, but sometimes more than one is needed.

Some anticonvulsant drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as drowsiness, and some of these drugs can be potentially harmful if taken with certain other medications or herbal supplements. Other common side effects include tremors, muscle twitching, and weight gain.

In some cases, surgery may be used to remove a small part of the brain where seizures originate. 

However, in many cases, surgeons are able to remove all or almost all of the tissue causing seizures without losing control over the rest of the body.

A newer surgical technique called responsive neurostimulation, or RNS, is used when other treatments fail. The device, which is about the size of a stopwatch, is implanted in the skull and has electrodes that monitor brain activity. When an abnormal pattern occurs, it emits tiny pulses to stop it.

A healthy diet therapy or vagus nerve stimulation can also help prevent seizures. In this treatment, a device similar to a pacemaker is implanted in the chest that sends electrical signals through the vagus nerve in the neck to the brain.

As far as high medical costs for such treatments are concerned, you must opt for the best health insurance policy offering benefits that cover all the pre-and post-hospitalisation expenses. Niva Bupa's Health Companion is one such comprehensive family plan that helps you safeguard your health and that of your family.

Conclusion

Epilepsy is a chronic condition that affects people worldwide and has a variety of symptoms, including strange sensations, emotions, and behaviors, or sometimes seizures. Even though epilepsy is common, it is still not wholly understood, and many people do not know much about it or how to best treat it.

There are many ways to stay alert, including taking care of your health and talking to your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing.

International Epilepsy Day 2022 spreads the word that epilepsy can be managed well and people should never give up hope. The most important thing is to never lose hope, as epilepsy is entirely controllable with the right treatment and support, eating the right food, and daily exercise.

FAQ

Is epilepsy a lifelong condition?

It depends on the case. Some people may outgrow it with age or treatment, while others may need lifelong care. Regular checkups help manage it better and improve daily living.

What triggers epileptic seizures?

Common triggers include stress, poor sleep, skipping medicine, flashing lights, or alcohol. Learning your personal triggers can help reduce seizures and make living with epilepsy easier.

Does health insurance cover epilepsy treatments?

Most health insurance plans cover hospitalisation, medicines, tests, and surgery for epilepsy. Always read the terms and check if pre-existing conditions or waiting periods apply to your policy.

Is surgery safe for treating epilepsy?

When medicine is ineffective, surgery may be an option. Doctors will first test where the seizures begin. Many people see great results with brain surgery or nerve stimulation devices.

What should I know before buying health insurance with epilepsy?

Declare epilepsy during the application to avoid claim rejections later. Some policies may have a waiting period before coverage for epilepsy begins. Look for one that includes neurological care and support for long-term illnesses.

Does OPD coverage help epilepsy patients?

Yes, OPD cover can be very helpful. Epilepsy often needs regular doctor visits and tests. OPD coverage reduces the cost of these appointments and allows continuous care without strain.

Does insurance cover emergency care for seizures?

Most plans cover emergency care, including ambulance services, hospitalisation, and related medications. It is essential to verify that your policy covers these services without lengthy waiting periods or approval delays.