By: Risper Atieno Omanyo
Epilepsy is a disorder in which nerve cell activity in the brain is disturbed causing sudden uncontrollable electrical disturbance in the brain which may change the feelings or movement. Epilepsy is also known as seizure disorder. The disease occurs as result of genetic disorder or acquired brain injury such as trauma and stroke. According to the World Health Organization, epilepsy is a chronic non communicable disease of the brain that affects people at any age, and around 50million people worldwide have epilepsy making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally. Being the most common neurological diseases, it is celebrated internationally every year, on 14th of February.
There are two types of the seizure disorder. One, focal that begins with an abnormal electrical discharge in a small region of the brain. The other one is generalized seizure which affects both sides of the brain hence leading to unconsciousness.
The disease is caused by lack of sleep. Individuals should ensure that they get enough sleep. Another cause of epilepsy is high fever, which can be associated with an infection such as meningitis. Flashing lights, moving patterns or other visual stimulants can also contribute to the disease. On the other hand, hyponatremia (low blood sodium) can also lead to the disease. People should be warned about these causes to reduce the rate of increase of epilepsy.
Epilepsy on the other hand can cause temporary confusion such that a person may fail to understand or get the instructions given. It can also cause a staring spell, uncontrollable jerking movement of the arms and legs and also loss of consciousness and awareness. Cognitive or emotional symptoms such as fear, anxiety or deja vu are also symptoms of seizure disorder. The disease can also cause some complications to individuals such as; falling, pregnancy complications and even drowning in the case of swimming.
Epilepsy can be controlled and be treated. The treatment given to seizure disorder differs. A ketogentic diet can be given as one of the treatment for the disease. (High fat diet and low carbohydrates and proteins). Deep brain stimulation (DBS) can also be done since it helps in changing the electrical signals in the brain. Offering Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) also helps in changing the chemicals level in the brain.
There is need to campaign for the awareness of epilepsy nationwide. The epileptic patients should be loved and taken care of just like other patients with other conditions and be induced in activities that mentors them.