Samman Association recently hosted an insightful Epilepsy Support Group Meeting at MGM Hospital, Kamothe, Navi Mumbai, bringing together doctors, patients, caregivers, and mental health experts to discuss epilepsy, its management, and the challenges faced by those living with it.

Understanding Epilepsy

The meeting set out by breifly explaning that epilepsy is a neurological disorder caused by abnormal firing of neurons in the brain, leading to seizures. These seizures can vary widely – focal in some individuals and generalized in others. During the session, doctors highlighted the key points patients and caregivers should monitor and discuss with their neurologist:

• Type of seizure
• Frequency and duration
• Medication adherence and changes
• Family history of epilepsy

Routine diagnostic tests such as EEG and brain imaging help identify the cause, though in around 50% of cases, no specific cause is found. Doctors stressed the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to manage symptoms effectively.

Pediatric Epilepsy: Special Considerations

Dr. Chandana Bhagwat shared insights on epilepsy in children, covering:

• Common and unusual epilepsy types in pediatric patients
• Scholastic performance, behavioral issues, and developmental concerns
• Potential sequelae if epilepsy goes untreated in children
• Benefits of early evaluation by a pediatric neurologist

Dr. Vaidehi Arwari further discussed:

• How epilepsy can affect development, IQ, and behavior
• Common epilepsy mimics in children
• Understanding pseudoseizures and differentiating them from true seizures

Adult Epilepsy and Mental Health

Adults with epilepsy often face additional challenges. The psychologist highlighted:

• Anxiety, depression, and personality disorders commonly seen alongside epilepsy
• Practical guidance on coping strategies and when to seek help

Women with Epilepsy

Dr. Ashwini Patankar addressed unique challenges faced by women, including:

• Workplace and school considerations
• Disclosure of epilepsy at work or school
• Practical tips for managing daily life with epilepsy

Surgical and Advanced Treatment Options

Dr. Dikpal Jadhav discussed:

• Seizures caused by trauma or structural brain lesions
• Surgical interventions for drug-refractory epilepsy or lesional cases
• Timing and indications for surgery

The Importance of Support Groups

Samman Association also presented the importance of support groups for people with epilepsy and their caregivers. Attendees watched first-aid demonstration videos in Marathi and Hindi.

Neuropsychologist and Samman’s Committee Member, Dr. Urvashi Shah, opened the floor for pateint sharing and reinforced the significance of accepting one’s diagnosis and working on living life fully despite epilepsy.

The meeting emphasized community, education, and empowerment, showing that with awareness and early intervention, people with epilepsy can lead confident, fulfilling lives.