November: Epilepsy Awareness Month
The Effects of Epilepsy on Daily Life
Epilepsy, though widely misunderstood, is the 4th most common neurological disorder in The United States. Many people do not know that anyone, regardless of family history, can have epilepsy, nor do they know how the disorder affects the daily lives of those who have it. Research initiatives for epilepsy are underfunded, making the advancement of treatments for the disorder slow- This is why public outreach and education, as well as National Epilepsy Awareness Month, is so important.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a disorder that disrupts nerve cell activity in the brain. This causes unprovoked seizures, or rushes of electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can be divided into two main types: Generalized, which affect the entire brain, and focal, which affect a particular part of the brain. Not all seizures, contrary to popular belief, cause uncontrollable spasms. Specifically, mild seizures may be difficult to recognize externally but can cause dizziness and a lack of awareness of one’s surroundings. Stronger seizures, which often cause spasms and twitching, can result in a temporary loss of consciousness.
Causes of Epilepsy
Experts believe that both genetic predisposition and environmental factors lead to epilepsy. Genetic mutations, specifically ones that affect the excitability of nerve cells, can increase the risk of developing the disorder. Trauma to the head and brain, as well as the contraction of infectious diseases, can also increase the risk of developing epilepsy. However, in nearly half of all cases, the exact cause of epilepsy cannot be identified.
Types of Seizures There are many types of seizures. Focal seizures can be divided into two subcategories: Simple partial seizures don’t result in a loss of consciousness but may cause dizziness and tingling. Complex partial seizures, on the other hand, result in a loss of awareness or consciousness, and can be otherwise identified through prolonged staring and general unresponsiveness.
Generalized seizures, which affect the entire brain, are divided into six subcategories: Absence seizures cause a blank stare, hence their name. Tonic seizures result in muscle and joint stiffness. Atonic seizures cause a person to suddenly collapse and lose control of muscles. Clonic seizures are characterized by jerky movements of the upper body. Myoclonic seizures, similar to clonic seizures, can be identified through twitching of the arms, but also the legs. Lastly, tonic-clonic seizures are characterized by shaking, biting of the tongue, stiffness, and a potential loss of consciousness.
First Aid for Epileptic Episodes
First aid for all seizure types is generally the same. Most importantly, those around the victim should keep the person safe from harm until the seizure passes. Loosen any articles of clothing around the person’s neck, such as scarves or ties, and give them space. Do not hold someone who is experiencing a seizure down or attempt to put anything in their mouth.
Daily Routines With Epilepsy
People with epilepsy lead normal lives, but because this disorder is so unpredictable, it definitely can impact a person’s daily life. For example, some states require that a driver has been seizure free for months before they can drive. This can lead to issues with finding an occupation that will work around a person’s recovery from their seizures. This disorder also impacts the kinds of entertainment it is safe for an epileptic to enjoy, as strobe lights, flashing images, and over-stimulation are common triggers for seizures.
A Day In the Life of A Person with Epilepsy
Below you can find an interview conducted with Tina McBride, a person that lives with epilepsy.
Listen and discover the eye-opening perspective of a person who lives with this disorder, and take a walk in the shoes of a daily life of a person with epilepsy.
What You Can Do
Don’t stop here! Below are two organizations that are working to improve the lives of epileptics through the funding of research initiatives and therapy. They are great resources for learning more about the disorder, and they are always accepting donations.
Resources:
https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/conditions-services/neurology-neurosurgery/epilepsy-seizures/causes
Image:
http://borgenproject.org/wp-content/uploads/epilepsy-530x398.jpg
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