World Epilepsy Day: Important Facts and First Aid Guide
The medical and humanitarian community around the world observes World Epilepsy Day annually on the second Monday of February, a global event aimed at raising awareness about one of the most prevalent neurological disorders. This day not only serves as a reminder of the condition but also as a global platform, launched by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) and the International Bureau of Epilepsy (IBE), to promote solidarity with those affected and their families.
What is epilepsy? Facts and figures
Epilepsy is a chronic, debilitating brain disorder affecting approximately 65 million people worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent seizures, which are brief episodes of involuntary movement that may involve only a part of the body (partial) or the entire body (generalized), and may sometimes be accompanied by loss of consciousness and loss of bowel or bladder control.
Global statistics indicate that 80% of those affected live in low- and middle-income countries, and unfortunately, three-quarters of them lack access to necessary treatment, widening what is known as the "treatment gap." Those affected also face a risk of premature death up to three times higher than the general population, not always due to the disease itself, but rather due to complications and accidents related to seizures.
Objectives of World Epilepsy Day
This event focuses on achieving strategic goals that contribute to improving the quality of life of those affected , most notably:
- Combating social stigma: Patients and their families suffer from discrimination and societal misunderstanding, which affects their opportunities in education, work, and marriage.
- Early diagnosis and treatment: Studies confirm that 70% of those affected can live completely seizure-free if they are correctly diagnosed and receive appropriate medication regularly.
- Strengthening partnerships: Calling on governments and ministries of health to enact legislation that guarantees the rights of epilepsy patients and provides affordable medicines.
How to deal with epileptic seizures (first aid)
Ignorance of how to act during a seizure is one of the greatest risks to the victim's life. Here are the correct steps to follow:
During the attack:
- Stay calm and calculate the duration of the attack .
- Keep any sharp or hard objects away from the injured person to protect them from injury.
- Place something soft (such as a jacket or pillow) under the injured person's head.
- Remove the glasses if he is wearing them, and loosen any tight clothing around the neck to facilitate breathing.
- Important warning: Do not attempt to restrain the victim forcefully, and do not put anything in their mouth (such as a spoon or a piece of cloth) as this may cause choking or tooth breakage.
After the attack ended:
Once the seizures have stopped, gently place the person in the recovery position (on their side) to help them breathe and prevent them from swallowing their tongue or choking on fluids. Wipe away any excess saliva, stay with them, and speak calmly until they regain full consciousness. If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or if another seizure occurs immediately, call emergency services right away.
