National Epilepsy Day 2023 – Epilepsy Awareness Month

National Epilepsy Day 2023 is on 17 November. The Epilepsy Foundation has set up this special day to increase awareness and support people living with the condition. It is basically a chronic brain disorder that causes recurrent fits or seizures. 

This neurological disorder can affect anyone, no matter their background, gender, age, or ethnicity. As per WHO, nearly 50 million individuals worldwide have epilepsy. Out of this, 10 million are from India that suffer from seizures. 

Theme of National Epilepsy Day 2023

The National Epilepsy Day 2023 theme is stigma. It addresses the discrimination challenges faced by those living with epilepsy. Today is the perfect time to challenge the stigma associated with the condition. 

What is the significance of National Epilepsy Day 2023? 

The main motto of National Epilepsy Day 2023 is to educate people about epilepsy and empower those living with it. Numerous non-government and Government organisations celebrate this day to create awareness about epilepsy symptoms and causes. 

National Epilepsy Awareness Month

National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM) is celebrated every year in November. Individuals take part in different activities like fundraising, educating others, campaigning, and volunteering. 

Wearing a purple-coloured ribbon daily in November Month indicates their support for people with epilepsy. Supporters also purchase and wear epilepsy awareness month T shirts, wristbands, and branded tote bags. 

Epilepsy Awareness Month Facts

Here are some facts about National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM) or National Epilepsy Day:

• Seizure Awareness Month is celebrated every year in November. 
• The Epilepsy Foundation picks a theme annually that aims to motivate people to get together and take prompt action in increasing funds and raising awareness. 
• Epilepsy affects nearly 3 million adults and 4,70,000 kids in the United States. 
• Seizures occur because of disturbance of brain electric activity which hinders the messaging between brain cells temporarily. 

• National epilepsy awareness month also increases funds for new treatments and research associated with epilepsy. 
• Individuals can donate to epilepsy charities or organizations like Cure Epilepsy, the Epilepsy Foundation or Purple Day® Every Day. 

By sharing facts about epilepsy, you can increase awareness and stop the stigma associated with seizures. 

FAQ’s

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about National Epilepsy Day 2023:

What are the symptoms of epilepsy?

Epilepsy symptoms can differ depending on the seizure type and between individuals. The most common signs of epilepsy include:

• Sudden jerking movements that are tough to control. 
• Confusion or dizziness temporarily. 
• Feelings of anxiety, fear, or Dejavu.
• Loss of awareness about the surroundings or unconsciousness. 
• A feeling of extreme happiness or well-being before the episode. 
• Staring blankly during a seizure. 

What is the name of the Doctor who founded the Epilepsy Foundation of India? 

Dr. Nirmal Surya founded the Epilepsy Foundation of India in 2009. 

What are the causes of Epilepsy? 

The common causes of epilepsy include:

• Brain infections. 
• Brain damage due to perinatal or prenatal injury. 
• Brain tumours and brain stroke. 
• High fever during childhood for a long time. 
• Congenital abnormalities.
• Head injury or accidents.