Debunking Epilepsy Myths: What Everyone Should Know

When you hear about the words "epilepsy" or "seizure," the first picture that anyone could imagine is the scene of some TV serial or movie where an actor is on the ground. This is the most common scene we have seen, but we have also seen people shaking their legs or hands uncontrollably and foam coming out of their mouths.

If we talk about India, then all the other symptoms, like zoning out, loss of consciousness, and stiffening of muscles, are often mixed with ancient superstitions, like a belief that a person is "possessed and some black magic has been done," and that smelling socks can stop the seizure. These things are more common in rural areas, where awareness is a major concern, and, unfortunately, they have become a social stigma and taboo as well. 

Epilepsy is a brain disorder and a chronic disease, and approximately 10 to 12 million people live with epilepsy in India, which accounts for nearly one-sixth of the global burden. It proves that it is not rare but a common health concern. There are certain misconceptions about seizures, and in this blog, we are busting some myths and decoding the science behind them.

What is epilepsy? 

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes repeated seizures (what we call "mirgi" in Hindi) that last for some minutes. It is triggered by bursts of uncontrolled electrical activity in brain cells. During those traumatizing few minutes, your body loses sense of awareness, muscle control, sensations, emotions, and behavior. This condition, caused by an electrical storm, can be initially diagnosed after at least two unprovoked seizures within 24 hours. It affects approximately 50 million people worldwide, making it one of the most common brain disorders.

There are basically two types of seizures. The First one is focal onset seizures, as this affects one side of the brain. Any abnormal activity will start locally and cause sensory and emotional symptoms, but you will remain conscious, awake, and a bit confused. On the other side, the second one is generalized onset seizures, which affect both sides of the brain at the same time. It can cause severe symptoms, such as shaking or whole-body stiffening. 

Also Read: Epilepsy: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

5 Common Myths around Epilepsy 

Here are common myths that need to be understood by the common people, as this will increase awareness about how serious these conditions are and how you can deal with patients of epilepsy. 

Myth 1: You Can "Swallow Your Tongue." During a Seizure

This is the most common myth people believe. They think that during a fit, the tongue gets flipped inwards and can choke the throat, which ultimately leads to death. Because of this, people do the wrong things to stop the fits and get out of this panic. 

Fact: 

But this is not the truth. Your tongue is not a loose piece of muscle. A thin piece of tissue holds it in place, called the frenulum. Because of this connection, no one can swallow their tongue. Although the tongue can sometimes relax and partially block the airway, it can never be swallowed. This is a very dangerous belief, as people often try to pry the mouth open with metal spoons, keys, or wooden sticks.

Myth 2: Epilepsy is contagious 

You can never catch epilepsy from any other individual. It is not the COVID-19 virus or any kind of cold or flu that can spread via touch, breath, or saliva. You are 100% safe to sit near, talk to, or help someone having a fit. It is a physical brain issue, not a germ.

Fact:

It is not a disease that can spread through hugging, holding hands, or playing together. In India, a lot of people avoid helping during a seizure out of concern for one's saliva. There is no reason to be afraid. In fact, it is mainly caused by the things that happen to a person, such as any head injury from an accident or any brain infection caused by unwashed fruits and vegetables. 

Myth 3: All Fits Look the Same 

What people see in films, they adopt and unquestioningly believe. Think only if a person is lying on the floor or shaking uncontrollably, then they are having seizures. But there is a flip side. A person can have a "quiet" seizure, and no one may notice. 

Fact:

 In real life, seizures have many faces. They can come in many different kinds.

• The "shaking" fit: This is the most common one, where a person starts shaking, and slowly their muscles stiffen.
• The "blank look": This is more common in kids. During a seizure, children stare at a single point for a few seconds. They are not being rude or ignoring anyone, but they just pause for a moment. 
• The "Fidget" Fit: In this type of person, they just smack their lips, pull at their clothes, or walk around looking totally confused. Their body is totally awake, but their brain is halfway between sleep and full awareness. 

Myth 4: People with epilepsy can't lead normal lives.

This is a very false narrative that has been set by society and people. They normally think that you are physically and mentally disabled, too. You are too fragile to work, study, or have a family. This is completely wrong.

Fact: 

Most people with this neurological disorder are leading good, normal, and successful lives. In fact, with the right medicine, about 70% of people can become totally seizure-free. Even women can lead normal lives after marriage; anyone can pursue their dreams, and children can study and go to school like any other child. They aren't "sick"; they just have a medical condition that needs management, like blood pressure or diabetes.

Myth 5: Epilepsy is a "Curse" or Mental Illness

It is majorly seen that people get scared of patients with seizures because their bodies lose control. This makes them think it is a kind of  "ghost," "evil spirit," or that the person has "gone mad" or lost their mind. 

Fact:

But this is something else. Epilepsy is a brain problem, not a soul problem. It is not connected to any negative aura or any spirit kind of thing. As our brain works with tiny electrical signals, a seizure is just a small short circuit in the brain cells. It is just a medical issue, like having a fever. It has nothing to do with bad luck or spirits.

Because of this mindset, awareness has not reached most Indian villages, as people do not go to hospitals for help. They only connect it to madness or a trap of some spirit, which is insane to believe. AIIMS New Delhi says that in rural India, up to 90% of people don't get the right medicine. Instead, they visit "tantriks" or faith healers. They think a simple, cheap pill can resolve this big issue. 

Also Read: Eating Fruits More Often Can Improve Your Mental Health,

Conclusion: Knowledge is the Best First Aid

At the end of the day, epilepsy is a medical concern that you can find in almost every Indian household. It's a brain condition, not a character flaw or a curse. In a country like India, where awareness can turn any problem into an opportunity by overcoming related fears, this health issue can also be addressed effectively. Awareness and early diagnosis are always priorities when dealing with any health issues. It is time we stop searching for shortcuts that involve cheap tricks like punishing patients or using dirty socks or shoes to get rid of the issues; we should understand the science and facts. With this, we only give 1.2 crore Indians the chance to live with the dignity they deserve.

FAQs

1. Is epilepsy a mental illness?

No, it is just one neurological condition caused by a sudden electrical shock to the brain. It controls everything, including awareness, emotions, and thoughts. People dealing with it can be completely healthy, as this is only a brain function. 

2. Can epilepsy be cured?

This may not provide a complete cure, but it can be controlled to some extent. Around 70 percent of people dealing with this issue can achieve long periods without getting seizures with the right kind of timely treatment. With proper medication and lifestyle changes, this is possible.

3. Is epilepsy contagious?

Not at all, as it is not a communicable disease like COVID-19 that spreads through touch. You cannot catch a cold, cough, or fever. This is a brain disorder, not an infection. You can get this from a head injury or any accident that impacts the brain directly.

4. Do all people with epilepsy have frequent seizures?

Not all people will get frequent seizures. It mainly differs as some people witness rare episodes of it, others may observe it often, and many can live long seizure-free stretches with treatment. With the right medication and support, the frequency can be reduced. 

5. Can people with epilepsy live a normal life?

Yes, most people with epilepsy can live a full and normal life, including education, careers, relationships, and hobbies. With regular medical care, proper treatment, and good lifestyle habits, many achieve long periods without seizures. Managing stress, sleep, and medication schedules helps people stay active and independent while reducing stigma and building confidence.

6. Is epilepsy only present from birth?

No, that isn't completely true. It can start at any age, including childhood, adulthood, or later years. Brain infections or some head injuries can be the culprit, so it cannot be limited to generic or developmental brain issues. 

7. Does epilepsy affect intelligence or learning ability?

Epilepsy itself does not automatically affect intelligence. Most people with epilepsy have normal thinking and cognitive abilities. In rare cases, frequent seizures or some treatments may impact learning or concentration, but this is due to individual health challenges, not epilepsy itself. With proper support and education strategies, many people succeed academically and professionally.