National Epilepsy Day 2025: Explanation (All Points Covered)
National Epilepsy Day is observed every year on 17 November in India. It aims to create awareness about epilepsy, remove social stigma, and encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
1. What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder in which a person experiences repeated seizures (sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain).
Seizures can look like:
- Sudden jerking of limbs
- Blank staring
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Unusual sensations or behaviors
About 1 in 26 people may develop epilepsy at some point in life.
2. Why National Epilepsy Day is Important
✔ Removes Myths & Stigma
Many people still wrongly believe:
- Epilepsy is caused by ghosts or past karma
- It is contagious
- People with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives
These myths cause discrimination, fear, and delayed treatment.
✔ Promotes Early Diagnosis
Early medical attention prevents:
- Frequent seizures
- Brain damage
- Accidental injuries
✔ Encourages Proper Treatment
Almost 70% of people with epilepsy can live seizure-free with proper medication.
3. Causes of Epilepsy
Epilepsy can happen due to several reasons, such as:
- Brain injury or trauma
- Stroke
- Brain infections (like meningitis)
- Childhood fever seizures
- Genetic factors
- Brain tumors
- Unknown reason (in 50% cases)
4. Symptoms of Epilepsy
Depending on the type of seizure, symptoms may include:
Major Seizure Symptoms
- Sudden fall
- Shaking of arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness
- Foaming at the mouth
- Tongue biting
Minor / Silent Seizure Symptoms
- Blank staring
- Rapid blinking
- Sudden confusion
- Repetitive movements (lip smacking, buttoning clothes repeatedly)
5. First Aid for Seizures (Very Important)
Do this:
- Stay calm
- Lay the person on their side
- Remove sharp objects nearby
- Loosen tight clothes around neck
- Put a soft object under the head
- Time the seizure
Do not:
- Do NOT put anything in the mouth
- Do NOT try to hold the person down
- Do NOT give water or medicines during a seizure
Seek medical help if:
- Seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
- Person doesn’t wake up
- It’s their first seizure
6. How Epilepsy is Treated
Treatment depends on the type and cause.
✔ Medicines (Anti-epileptic drugs – AEDs)
Most common and effective. Taken daily to prevent seizures.
✔ Surgery
If medicines don’t work and seizures come from one area of brain.
✔ Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
A small device implanted for difficult cases.
✔ Lifestyle Management
- Adequate sleep
- Stress reduction
- Avoid skipping medication
- Avoid alcohol
- Safe environment (no driving until controlled)
7. Theme for National Epilepsy Day 2025
The official theme may be announced closer to the date (usually around October–November).
However common themes usually include:
- “Epilepsy Awareness & Inclusion”
- “Stop the Stigma”
- “Epilepsy: Diagnosis, Treatment, Support”
8. Activities on National Epilepsy Day
- Awareness campaigns
- Free medical camps
- Workshops in schools & colleges
- Social media programs
- Neurologist-led sessions
- Epilepsy screening camps
9. Key Message of National Epilepsy Day
- Epilepsy is treatable.
- People with epilepsy can live normal, successful lives.
- Awareness can save lives and prevent stigma.
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