From First Symptoms to Long-Term Care: Everything You Need To Know About Epilepsy
Dr. Anitha Kotha
Did you know that Epilepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide, making it one of the most common neurological disorders?
Epilepsy, also known as a seizure disorder, is a brain condition that causes recurring seizures, sometimes called fits. It is a neurological disorder characterised by sudden, recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, and convulsions, resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The seizures vary widely in type and severity, ranging from brief lapses in attention or muscle twitches to prolonged convulsions and loss of consciousness. Having a single seizure does not necessarily mean you have epilepsy. Epilepsy is diagnosed only if you have had at least two unprovoked seizures in a minimum of 24 hours.
SYMPTOMS OF EPILEPSY:
The symptoms of seizure, the characteristic condition of Epilepsy, can vary widely. Some people may lose awareness during a seizure, and some people stare blankly for a couple of seconds. Some may repeatedly twitch their arms or legs in movements. These are called convulsions.
Epileptic seizures cause certain abnormal activities in the brain, resulting in the following symptoms:
Most people with epilepsy tend to have the same type of seizure each time. Symptoms are usually similar from episode to episode. Warning signs (also called auras) might be in the form of a taste or a smell. They might also be visual, such as a steady or flashing light, a colour, or a shape. Some people may experience dizziness and loss of balance. Some people also experience hallucinations.
CAUSES OF EPILEPSY
The exact cause of epilepsy remains to be identified. The factors that influence its development are identified as follows,
- Head injuries: Traumas resulting from traffic accidents, falls, or blows to the head are found to cause epileptic conditions.
- Brain infections: Brain abscesses, meningitis, encephalitis, and neurocysticercosis are examples of infections.
- Stroke and Brain Vessel Abnormalities: Brain health issues that can cause epilepsy include brain tumours, strokes, dementia, and abnormal blood vessels, such as arteriovenous malformations.
- Mesial temporal sclerosis: In this condition, a scar forms inside the temporal lobe (part of the brain near the ear), which can lead to focal seizures.
- Developmental disorders: Birth abnormalities affecting the brain are a frequent cause of epilepsy, particularly in people whose seizures are not controlled with anti-seizure medications.
- Metabolic disorders: People with abnormalities in metabolism are found to be prone to epilepsy.
- Immune disorders: Certain illnesses, called autoimmune diseases, cause your immune system to attack brain cells, causing epilepsy.
- Genetics: Some types of epilepsy, like juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and childhood absence epilepsy, are more likely to run in families.
HOW TO MONITOR AND CONTROL SEIZURES?
MONITORING SEIZURES:
- Identify and Avoid Triggers: Common triggers include lack of sleep, stress, flashing lights, alcohol dependence, and skipping medication. Keeping a record can help identify individual triggers. Seizure diary apps are available to help with this.
- Document the frequency, duration, and type of seizures. Note any activities, foods, or stressors that occurred before the seizure and avoid them.
- Medical Devices: The use of wearable devices like smartwatches can detect seizure activity and alert caregivers.
- EEG (electroencephalogram) monitoring tracks brain activity and may be used for in-depth analysis.
AVOIDING SEIZURES:
Epilepsy touches the lives of millions of families in India. In 2023, about 10 million people were living with the condition, and by 2024, the number had climbed to nearly 12 million, almost one-sixth of the world’s epilepsy burden. Today, in 2025, more than 15 million Indians are affected, making it one of the country’s most pressing neurological challenges. Yet behind these numbers are real people, many of whom still struggle without proper care. Sadly, between 50% and 70% of patients never receive the treatment they need, often because of stigma, lack of awareness, or limited access to specialists. These figures remind us that raising awareness and improving access to care isn’t just about statistics; it’s about helping millions of Indians live healthier, fuller lives
TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF EPILEPSY
Treatment can help people diagnosed with epilepsy to have fewer or even completely stop having seizures.
Follow these steps for the best seizure control:
- Take medicines as prescribed. Never stop taking your medicine without consulting your healthcare professional.
- Always call your healthcare professional before switching to a generic version of your medicine or taking other medicines.
- Let your healthcare professional know immediately if you notice new or increased feelings of depression or any suicidal thoughts, or a change in mood or behaviour.
- Consult your healthcare professional if you have any signs of migraine. You may need an anti-seizure medicine that can prevent migraine and treat epilepsy.
Equipped with the right kind of information and tools, a patient or his/her attendant can effectively manage epilepsy and lead a normal, disease-free, and happy life.
WHY CHOOSE STAR HOSPITALS?
At Star Hospitals, we consider patients, especially those with neurological disorders, to be more than just medical cases - they are individuals with unique needs and concerns. We foster a culture of empathy among the staff, ensuring that the patient feels heard, understood, and supported. We craft custom care plans prioritising lifestyle restoration and coordinated support services.
All the doctors, nurses, and non-medical staff are committed to being the most skilled and knowledgeable in their respective fields. They invest in the most advanced and innovative treatments.
Consider registering with Star Hospitals and staying connected with the best Neurologists in Hyderabad, especially if there is an epilepsy-affected member of the family. This way, you can assist the patient immediately and professionally and also stay aware and ready to face any challenges.
