Myths and Facts About Epilepsy: Understanding the Truth for Better Care
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy is surrounded by misconceptions and myths that often create fear, stigma, and misunderstanding. These myths can affect how patients are treated socially, at work, and even within their own families. Dispelling these misconceptions is essential for promoting awareness, empathy, and proper medical care.
At NHS Hospital, under the guidance of DrSandeepGoel (DM Neurology), Senior Neurologist with over 26 years of experience, patients benefit from advanced diagnostics, personalised treatment, and compassionate care. Having treated thousands of patients, DrGoel’s expertise and dedication have earned him immense trust in the community. With 24/7 access to the latest MRI and CT technology, including silent and low-radiation options, accurate diagnosis and effective management are at the forefront of patient care.
Common Myths About Epilepsy
Myth 1: Epilepsy is a form of mental illness
Many people mistakenly believe that epilepsy is linked to mental health disorders. In reality, epilepsy is a neurological condition caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While some patients may experience emotional or psychological effects due to seizures, epilepsy itself is not a mental illness.
Myth 2: People with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives
Some believe that epilepsy limits career options, education, and daily life activities. Modern medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring allow most patients to live full, productive lives. With proper guidance from experts like DrSandeepGoel, patients can achieve excellent seizure control and independence.
Myth 3: All seizures involve convulsions
While convulsive seizures are the most recognisable type, epilepsy can also cause subtle episodes such as brief lapses in awareness, staring spells, or unusual sensations. Accurate diagnosis using EEG, MRI, and CT scans is essential to identify the seizure type and provide targeted treatment.
Myth 4: Epilepsy is contagious
Epilepsy is not infectious. It cannot be transmitted through contact, sharing food, or close interaction. Educating family members, friends, and the community helps reduce stigma and promotes understanding.
Myth 5: Epilepsy always starts in childhood
Epilepsy can develop at any age. While some patients experience it from childhood, others may develop seizures in adulthood due to factors such as stroke, head injury, brain infections, or other neurological conditions.
Facts About Epilepsy
Fact 1: Epilepsy is treatable
With modern medicine and neurological care, most patients achieve excellent seizure control. Anti-epileptic drugs, lifestyle management, and in some cases interventional procedures can significantly improve quality of life.
Fact 2: Accurate diagnosis is critical
Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment. Advanced imaging with 24/7 MRI and CT facilities at NHS Hospital, under DrGoel’s supervision, ensures precise identification of the underlying causes of seizures.
Fact 3: Epilepsy management requires a personalised approach
Every patient’s condition is unique. Factors such as seizure type, age, underlying cause, and comorbidities influence treatment. DrSandeepGoel’s vast experience and patient-focused approach ensure that each patient receives customised care.
Fact 4: Lifestyle plays an important role
Adequate sleep, stress management, avoiding triggers, and adherence to medication schedules are essential for seizure control. Patients who follow these guidelines, alongside medical supervision, often see significant improvements.
Fact 5: Awareness reduces stigma
Understanding epilepsy helps communities support patients rather than isolate them. Patient trust in DrSandeepGoel stems not only from his medical expertise but also his commitment to educating patients and families, promoting empathy, and encouraging open conversations about the condition.
How NHS Hospital Supports Epilepsy Patients
At NHS Hospital, we provide comprehensive neurological care for epilepsy patients. Our services include:
- Detailed evaluation and accurate diagnosis using EEG, MRI, and CT scans available 24/7
- Individualised medication and treatment plans
- Interventional and surgical options for drug-resistant epilepsy
- Continuous follow-up and lifestyle guidance
- Psychological support for patients and families
With DrSandeepGoel at the helm, patients receive compassionate care backed by decades of experience. His dedication, expertise, and patient-first philosophy make him one of the most trusted neurologists in the region, having treated thousands of epilepsy patients successfully.
Conclusion
Dispelling myths about epilepsy is crucial to improving patient care, social acceptance, and quality of life. Understanding the facts allows patients and families to seek proper treatment without fear or hesitation. With expert guidance from DrSandeepGoel (DM Neurology), Senior Neurologist with over 2 decades of experience, patients benefit from advanced diagnostics, tailored treatments, and compassionate support. At NHS Hospital, we are committed to ensuring that every epilepsy patient receives world-class care, accurate diagnosis, and the reassurance needed to live a confident, fulfilling life.