Breaking Update: Here’s a clear explanation of the latest developments related to Breaking News:Epilepsy Affects Over 15 Million Indians, Doctors Urge Early Treatment– What Just Happened and why it matters right now.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder marked by repeated seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. According to estimates, more than 15 million people in India live with epilepsy. However, despite the high prevalence, many patients delay seeking medical care due to fear, social stigma, and widespread misconceptions—particularly in small towns and rural areas.
Doctors Urge Timely Treatment Like Any Chronic Illness
Doctors stress that epilepsy should be treated like other long-term conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. With modern treatment options, nearly 70 per cent of epilepsy patients can successfully control seizures through regular medication. Moreover, for patients who do not respond to medicines, advanced therapies available in India now offer renewed hope and a better quality of life.
Understanding What Happens During a Seizure
Explaining the condition, Dr Madhukar Bhardwaj, Director and Head of Neurology at Aakash Healthcare, said seizures occur when the brain’s electrical signals function abnormally for a brief period.
As a result, a person may shake, fall, stare blankly, or lose awareness. While some seizures are mild and last only a few seconds, others can be more severe and disruptive.
Myths and Stigma Still Delay Hospital Visits
However, Dr Bhardwaj noted that many patients remain hesitant to seek hospital care, especially in rural areas, due to persistent myths surrounding epilepsy.
He explained that some people wrongly believe epilepsy is caused by ghosts or black magic, spreads through touch, or prevents individuals from studying, working, or getting married. Another dangerous misconception involves putting objects into the mouth during a seizure. Dr Bhardwaj emphasised that all these beliefs are false and can seriously harm patients.
Multiple Causes, Different Triggers
Meanwhile, Dr Neha Kapoor, Associate Director and Head of Neurology at Asian Hospital, said the causes of epilepsy vary from person to person. In many cases, doctors cannot identify a specific cause.
She explained that epilepsy may result from genetic factors, head injuries, brain infections such as meningitis, strokes, or brain damage. In children, it may occur due to lack of oxygen at birth or abnormal brain development before birth.
However, she clarified that while stress, sleep deprivation, and alcohol can trigger seizures, they do not directly cause epilepsy.
Early Diagnosis Often Missed
Highlighting diagnostic challenges, Dr Praveen Gupta, Chairman of Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro and Spine (MAIINS), said epilepsy often goes undetected because seizures do not always appear dramatic.
He explained that not all seizures involve shaking. Some may resemble brief confusion or daydreaming, which leads to delayed diagnosis. Therefore, he stressed that early detection plays a crucial role in effective treatment.
Most Patients Can Lead Normal Lives
Dr Gupta added that epilepsy affects people of all age groups, yet many patients reach specialists very late due to fear and misinformation. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, he said, most patients can live completely normal lives.
Surgery and Advanced Treatments Offer New Hope
Furthermore, Dr Gupta noted that epilepsy surgery is being successfully performed in India. Surgeons carefully identify and treat or remove the specific brain area responsible for seizures.
Although doctors usually consider surgery only after medicines fail, it offers significant hope for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. He added that advanced treatment options, including neuro-robotic techniques, are now transforming outcomes and improving quality of life for many patients.
Epilepsy Can Affect Sexual Health, Say Experts
In addition, Dr Vineet Malhotra, Principal Consultant in Urology, Sexology, Andrology, and Infertility Treatment at SCM Healthcare, said epilepsy can also impact men’s sexual health.
He explained that seizures, stress, and certain anti-seizure medications may lower energy levels, affect hormones, or reduce sexual desire. However, he reassured patients that doctors can address these concerns through lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, and counselling, enabling patients to maintain healthy and active lives.