February 10 International Epilepsy Day: What Is Epilepsy and First Aid

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet it is still surrounded by misinformation. February 10, International Epilepsy Day, is observed globally each year to raise public awareness about epilepsy, spread accurate information, and reduce stigma.

This special day highlights that epilepsy is not limited to seizures alone; with early diagnosis, appropriate management, and informed intervention, individuals’ quality of life can be preserved. However, widespread misconceptions in society can negatively affect both people with epilepsy and those around them.

In this article, epilepsy is examined within a scientific and practical framework, covering what epilepsy is, its symptoms, common myths, and—most importantly—how to help someone experiencing an epileptic seizure.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal and excessive electrical activity in brain nerve cells. Experiencing a single seizure is not sufficient for an epilepsy diagnosis; the diagnosis is usually made when recurrent and unexplained seizures are present.

Epilepsy can occur at any age. However, it is more commonly seen during childhood, adolescence, and older adulthood. The severity, type, and frequency of seizures vary from person to person. In some individuals, seizures occur infrequently, while in others they may significantly affect daily life.

What Causes Epilepsy?

The cause of epilepsy cannot always be clearly identified. However, many cases involve underlying risk factors.

Causes that may lead to epilepsy include:

• Birth trauma and lack of oxygen: Brain damage occurring during birth

• Head injuries: Brain damage due to traffic accidents, falls, or physical trauma

• Brain tumors or vascular diseases: Conditions such as stroke or cerebral hemorrhage

• Genetic predisposition: A family history of epilepsy

• Infections: Brain infections such as meningitis or encephalitis

In some patients, no definitive cause can be identified despite extensive evaluation. This is referred to as “epilepsy of unknown cause.”

What Are the Symptoms of Epilepsy?

Epilepsy symptoms are not limited to severe convulsions. Depending on the seizure type, symptoms can vary widely. For this reason, epilepsy may sometimes progress unnoticed.

The most common epilepsy symptoms include:

• Sudden loss of consciousness

• Convulsions affecting part or all of the body

• Staring spells or brief episodes of unresponsiveness

• Uncontrolled arm or leg movements

• Sudden falls

• Involuntary screaming

• Tongue biting or foaming at the mouth

• Confusion, fatigue, and headache after a seizure

Some seizures last only a few seconds, while others may continue for several minutes. Post-seizure confusion is one of the distinguishing features of epilepsy.

Types of Epilepsy

Epilepsy is classified into different types based on which area of the brain is affected. This classification is essential for accurate treatment and follow-up.

Focal (Partial) Epileptic Seizures

Focal seizures begin in a specific area of the brain. Consciousness may or may not be impaired.

Possible features include:

• One-sided muscle contractions

• Unusual smells or tastes

• Emotional changes

• Automatic movements (such as hand rubbing or lip smacking)

Generalized Epileptic Seizures

Generalized seizures affect both hemispheres of the brain and are usually associated with loss of consciousness.

The most well-known generalized seizure types include:

• Tonic-clonic seizures (commonly known as epileptic or “grand mal” seizures)

• Absence seizures (brief staring episodes)

• Myoclonic seizures

These seizure types are most commonly associated with epilepsy in public perception.

Common Myths About Epilepsy

Misinformation about epilepsy can lead to social exclusion and inappropriate interventions.

Myth: Epilepsy is contagious

Epilepsy is not contagious. It cannot be transmitted through physical contact or shared environments.

Myth: Everyone with epilepsy loses consciousness during a seizure

Not all epileptic seizures involve loss of consciousness. In some cases, individuals remain aware of their surroundings.

Myth: Epilepsy causes intellectual disability

Epilepsy does not directly cause intellectual disability. People with epilepsy can actively participate in education, work, and social life.

Myth: Something must be placed in the mouth during a seizure

This is extremely dangerous and incorrect. Placing objects in the mouth during a seizure can cause serious injuries.

How Can You Help Someone Having an Epileptic Seizure?

Providing appropriate assistance during an epileptic seizure is crucial for the person’s safety and for preventing complications. Many well-intentioned actions in society can actually pose serious health risks. February 10, International Epilepsy Day, is an important opportunity to promote accurate knowledge on this topic.

Most epileptic seizures are short-lived and resolve on their own. The main goal during a seizure is to prevent injury and avoid panic unless medical intervention becomes necessary.

What to Do During an Epileptic Seizure

Remaining calm and following the correct steps is vital when witnessing a seizure.

Correct First Aid During a Seizure

During a seizure, you should:

• Move the person to a safe area and remove hard or sharp objects nearby

• Turn their head to the side to keep the airway open

• Place something soft under their head if possible

• Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck and chest

• Monitor the duration of the seizure

Seizures usually end within 1–3 minutes. Staying with the person and observing them is generally sufficient.

What Not to Do During an Epileptic Seizure

Incorrect interventions can cause serious harm and should be strictly avoided.

Actions That Should Never Be Taken

During a seizure, do not:

• Place spoons, cloths, fingers, or any objects in the mouth

• Attempt to restrain the person or stop the convulsions

• Give water, medication, or food

• Shake the person or panic

• Crowd around the individual

Such actions can result in broken teeth, jaw dislocation, airway obstruction, and choking.

What Should Be Done After a Seizure?

After a seizure ends, the person may experience confusion, fatigue, and disorientation. This phase is known as the postictal period.

After the seizure:

• Allow the person to rest

• Stay with them until full consciousness returns

• Speak slowly and calmly

• Help create a calm environment to reduce embarrassment or panic

It is not appropriate to force the person to stand up or speak immediately.

When Should Emergency Medical Help Be Called?

Not every epileptic seizure requires emergency care. However, some situations pose serious risks.

Emergency services should be contacted if:

• The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes

• Seizures occur repeatedly without recovery

• It is the person’s first seizure

• Consciousness does not return after the seizure

• A serious injury occurs during the seizure

• The person is pregnant or has diabetes or heart disease

These situations may indicate a more serious condition and require professional evaluation.

Living With Epilepsy: What to Consider in Daily Life

An epilepsy diagnosis does not mean withdrawing from life. With appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments, individuals with epilepsy can lead active, productive, and social lives.

What Can Individuals With Epilepsy Do?

Epilepsy can often be effectively managed with proper follow-up and regular medical care.

Individuals with epilepsy can:

• Continue their education

• Work and plan their careers

• Participate in sports (with medical advice)

• Engage actively in social life

The key is recognizing seizure triggers and avoiding them when possible.

Factors That May Trigger Epileptic Seizures

Triggers vary from person to person, but some common factors include:

• Sleep deprivation

• Intense stress or emotional strain

• Alcohol consumption

• Skipping or irregular use of medication

• Prolonged fasting

• Flashing lights (photosensitive epilepsy)

Awareness of these factors can significantly improve seizure control.

How Is Epilepsy Diagnosed?

Epilepsy cannot be diagnosed based on a single symptom alone. A thorough neurological evaluation is required.

Diagnostic methods include:

• Detailed medical history

• EEG (Electroencephalography)

• Brain MRI or CT imaging

• Blood tests and metabolic evaluation

Diagnosis and treatment planning must be conducted by a neurology specialist.

How Is Epilepsy Treated?

Epilepsy treatment is tailored to the individual based on seizure type, frequency, and underlying causes. The goal is to eliminate seizures or significantly reduce their frequency and severity. Today, highly effective and safe treatment options are available.

Epilepsy treatment is a long-term process that requires regular follow-up. Treatment adherence is the most critical factor in seizure control.

Treatment Methods Used in Epilepsy

The cornerstone of epilepsy treatment is antiepileptic medication. In many patients, regular medication use successfully controls seizures.

Important considerations in medication therapy:

• Medications should be taken at the same time every day

• Dosage changes must be made under medical supervision

• Medications should not be stopped abruptly

• Side effects should be monitored regularly

With the correct medication and dosage, many patients can live seizure-free for long periods.

Surgical Treatment and Other Approaches

In some cases, seizures cannot be controlled with medication alone. Advanced treatment options may then be considered.

Advanced treatment options include:

• Epilepsy surgery

• Vagus nerve stimulation

• Ketogenic diet (especially in children)

These approaches are not suitable for every patient and require thorough evaluation.

Managing Epilepsy in Children

Epilepsy in childhood may present differently than in adults. Some epilepsy types are specific to childhood and may resolve completely over time.

Key aspects of managing childhood epilepsy include:

• Early diagnosis and regular follow-up

• Informing schools and teachers

• Family education and psychosocial support

• Close monitoring of medication adherence

The child’s emotional and social development should be considered alongside medical treatment.

Epilepsy and Social Awareness

Although epilepsy is a medical condition, it is still often misunderstood by society. This can lead to social exclusion and psychological distress for individuals with epilepsy.

February 10, International Epilepsy Day, plays a crucial role in reducing stigma and spreading accurate information. Knowledge about epilepsy benefits not only patients but society as a whole.

How Can Quality of Life Be Improved With Epilepsy?

An epilepsy diagnosis does not mean a reduced quality of life. With the right support, quality of life can be largely preserved.

Factors that improve quality of life include:

• Regular medical follow-up

• Healthy sleep habits

• Stress management

• Social support

• An informed environment and proper first aid knowledge

The greatest need of individuals living with epilepsy is understanding and appropriate support.

The Right Support for Epilepsy With Happ Health

In chronic conditions such as epilepsy, regular monitoring, accurate information, and specialist support are essential. As a digital health platform, Happ Health provides easy access to online doctors, online health counseling, and remote specialist consultations.

For epilepsy-related concerns, you can consult neurology specialists through online doctor appointments and receive guidance and follow-up securely. Digital solutions that improve access to healthcare make living with epilepsy more manageable.