Clinical Corner: All In for Epilepsy Awareness – Understanding, Supporting, and Taking Action

November marks National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM) – a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support the 3.4 million Americans living with epilepsy.  This year, the Epilepsy Foundation of America’s theme calls us to be “All In for Epilepsy Awareness,” reminding us that every action – big or small – can make a difference.

The Power of Awareness

Did you know:

– 1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime

– 1 in 26 will be diagnosed with epilepsy

– 456,000 children in the U.S. live with epilepsy

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy, also known as seizure disorder, is a neurological condition characterized by recurring, unprovoked seizures.  These seizures result from sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain, leading to temporary changes in movement, behavior, sensation, and/or awareness.

Who Is at Risk?

Epilepsy can occur at any age and is most commonly diagnosed in children and older adults.  Individuals with family history of epilepsy, head trauma, stroke, infections (such as meningitis), and some genetic disorders may be at increased risk of seizures, but often no definitive cause can be found.

Missed medication doses, lack of sleep, stress, and flashing lights are some of the most common triggers of a seizure in individuals with epilepsy.

Recognizing Seizure Symptoms

Seizures vary widely.  Some common signs include:

– Temporary confusion or blank staring

– Muscle stiffness or jerking movements

– Loss of consciousness

– Psychological symptoms like fear or déjà vu

– Dizziness or behavioral changes

– Auras (warning sensations before a seizure)

Treatment Options

While epilepsy is a lifelong condition, effective treatment can reduce or eliminate seizures.  Options include anti-seizure medications, brain stimulation therapies, surgery, and ketogenic (low-carbohydrate, high-fat) diet.

Support Strategies for People with Epilepsy

Despite its prevalence, epilepsy is often misunderstood.  The stigma experienced by many individuals can negatively impact their quality of life, even when seizures are well controlled.  Supporting someone with epilepsy means being proactive and informed:

– Ensure individual is connected with a primary care provider and neurologist.

– Encourage individual to work with their doctor to develop a seizure action plan.

– Encourage adherence with medication, appointments, and other medical recommendations.

– Assess their living space for safety hazards.

– Identify and address barriers to care.

Take Action This November

Together, we can build a more informed, compassionate community where no one faces epilepsy alone.  Being All In doesn’t mean doing everything – it means doing something. Here’s how you can help:

– Learn more about epilepsy

– Share a story to raise awareness

– Wear purple to show support

– Support someone living with epilepsy

Additional Resources

– Free Seizure First Aid Training (English): First Aid for Seizures | Stay, Safe, Side | Epilepsy Foundation

– Free Seizure First Aid Training (Spanish): Portal de aprendizaje de la Epilepsy Foundation

– Seizure Recognition and First Aid Certification: Seizure Recognition and First Aid Certification (ILT) – Registration – v2.1

– Find local epilepsy foundation and events in your community: Find Your Local Epilepsy Foundation | Epilepsy Foundation