National Epilepsy Day 2023: Importance, History (Causes and Symptoms of Epilepsy)

National Epilepsy Day:- Every 17th November is celebrated as National Epilepsy Day in India. The Epilepsy Foundation created the day to raise awareness about epilepsy. Recurrent seizures or seizures are the hallmark of epilepsy, a chronic brain disease. On this day, people across the country learn more about seizures and how to address the problem. In addition to November 17 being National Epilepsy Day, November is also recognized as National Epilepsy Awareness Month.

This day serves as a platform to educate the public about epilepsy, its causes, symptoms and available treatment options. It also aims to reduce the stigma associated with epilepsy, as many people with the condition face discrimination and misunderstanding. National Epilepsy Day provides an opportunity to promote inclusion and support for people living with epilepsy, while encouraging research and advancements in this field. By increasing understanding and acceptance, we can create a more inclusive society for people with epilepsy and work to improve their quality of life.

National Epilepsy Day 2023

In India, National Epilepsy Day is celebrated on November 17 every year to increase understanding of the disease. Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent “fits” or “convulsions.” Seizures are caused by abrupt, uncontrollable electrical currents in neurons. The disease can affect anyone at any time and each age group has different problems and concerns. There are an estimated 50 million epileptics worldwide, 80% of whom live in poor countries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Although epilepsy is treatable, three quarters of people who suffer from it in developing countries do not receive the necessary care. More than 10 million epileptic seizures occur in India every year.

National Epilepsy Day is a major annual event that aims to raise awareness and understanding of epilepsy, a neurological disorder that affects millions of people around the world. This day provides an opportunity to educate the public about epilepsy, its causes, symptoms and treatment options. It also serves as a platform to highlight the challenges faced by people living with epilepsy, such as stigma and discrimination. Through various events and activities, National Epilepsy Day seeks to promote inclusion and support for people affected by epilepsy.

National Epilepsy Day Overview

Importance of National Epilepsy Day 2023

According to an assessment by the World Health Organization (WHO), around 50 million people worldwide suffer from epilepsy. About 10 million of the 50 million people who suffer from epilepsy-related seizures are from India. Although epilepsy is curable, patients often do not receive the necessary care due to lack of information.

National Epilepsy Day is a unique occasion that raises awareness about epilepsy across the country. The day provides a forum for people to come together and recognize the issues faced by epilepsy sufferers, their families and carers.

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What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by erratic brain activity that can cause seizures or episodes of strange behavior, feelings, and even loss of consciousness. Anyone can develop epilepsy. Epilepsy can affect both men and women of all ages, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds.

There are several possible symptoms of seizures. Some epileptics simply stare aimlessly for a limited period of time during a seizure, while others repeatedly move their limbs or legs. Epilepsy may not always be present after a single episode. Typically, at least two unprovoked seizures occurring at least 24 hours apart are needed to diagnose epilepsy.

Most patients with epilepsy can control their seizures with medications, although surgery is rarely necessary. Others eventually achieve seizure cessation, while other patients require ongoing treatment to control their seizures. Some young people with epilepsy may eventually outgrow their condition.

Epilepsy: cause and symptoms

Since epilepsy is caused by abnormal brain activity, seizures can interfere with any coordinated brain function. Some warning signs and symptoms of seizures are temporary confusion, a period of staring, tense muscles, and jerky, uncoordinated movements of the arms and legs. Additional mental experiences such as loss of consciousness or consciousness, as well as emotional symptoms such as anxiety and fear, may also occur.

The particular symptoms depend on the type of seizures. Since a person with epilepsy usually has the same type of seizure each time, the symptoms will remain similar from episode to episode. Doctors typically classify seizures as focal or generalized based on how and where the abnormal brain activity begins.

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Causes:

These are the main causes of epilepsy and the seizures associated with it:

Brain damage from perinatal or prenatal injury
Congenital anomalies
Brain infections
Strokes and brain tumors
Head injuries/accidents
Prolonged high fever during childhood.

Symptoms:

The following are the basic symptoms of epilepsy:

Sudden spasms (uncontrollable shaking of arms and legs)
Loss of consciousness
Tingling sensation in arms or legs (pins or needles pricking sensation)
Stiffness in the muscles of the arms, legs or face.

Tips for coping with seizures

How to deal with a person suffering from seizures:

Do not try to hold the person down during a seizure.
Loosen any clothing that is constricting your neck.
Remove sharp objects or other harmful objects from the person with seizures.
Do not put anything in the person’s mouth.
Stay with the person until appropriate medical help arrives.

To create awareness about the ailment, the National Health Portal published the above information about epilepsy (cause, symptom and advice) on its website.

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History of National Epilepsy Day

The Epilepsy Foundation of India created National Epilepsy Day as part of a campaign to reduce the incidence of epilepsy in the nation. Dr. Nirmal Surya founded the Epilepsy Foundation of India in 2009 and is based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. A non-profit charity called the Epilepsy Foundation helps people who suffer from seizures live happy and productive lives. The organization also strives to alter public perception of epilepsy.

Celebration of National Epilepsy Day 2023

To increase public awareness about epilepsy in people, National Epilepsy Day is celebrated. Many governmental and non-governmental organizations carry out activities to commemorate this day on this anniversary. You can find out what’s happening in your neighborhood and encourage your loved ones to get involved. Through web resources, try to discover more about this condition and its daily life. Share your knowledge with others too.

Conclusion

National Epilepsy Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. The day serves as an opportunity to educate the public about epilepsy, dispel myths and misconceptions and promote understanding and support for people living with the condition. It is also a time to highlight the importance of early diagnosis, access to quality medical care, and the need for continued research to improve treatment options and ultimately find a cure. National Epilepsy Day brings together healthcare professionals, advocacy organizations and people affected by epilepsy to come together in solidarity and make a difference in the lives of those living with this difficult condition. By spreading awareness, promoting education and encouraging inclusion, National Epilepsy Day plays a vital role in improving the lives of people with epilepsy and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions about National Epilepsy Day

Why do we celebrate National Epilepsy Day?

The meaning of the day is to inform people to eradicate the disease from the country and educate them about the myths associated with it. The day will educate common people to help people who cannot afford this neurological disease.

What day is epilepsy day?

International Epilepsy Day is celebrated annually on the second Monday of February. This special day serves as a platform to increase understanding about epilepsy, including its nature, the treatment options available, and the essential steps needed to ensure access to treatment for all who need it.

What day is National Epilepsy Day celebrated in India?

National Epilepsy Day is celebrated in India on November 17 to raise awareness about this condition.

What color is epilepsy month?

Most people have seen the color purple during fundraising events, on social media, and in educational materials related to epilepsy awareness.