TODAY I am completing the list of illnesses,disorders and conditions which are prevalent, yet, neglected in Guyana. Even though I deal with many of these disorders daily, I was still surprised at the interest and number of topic suggestions I received. It gives me hope that people not only want to spread awareness but also understanding and empathy.
The last request, which we will discuss today, is Epilepsy.

What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that affects people of any age. It is also known as a seizure disorder. While anyone can develop it, epilepsy is more common in males than females.

What are the signs and symptoms of Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is mostly characterised by seizures which are abnormal movements and behaviours caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain. They are typically recurrent, unprovoked and come in many forms. A mild seizure may be difficult to identify and may only last a few seconds. While seizures are usually unprovoked, there are a few triggers that may increase the chances of one. These include lack of sleep, poor diet, fever, high stress or anxiety, caffeine or drug use and bright or flashing lights.
However, it is important to note that not everyone who experiences seizures has epilepsy. High fevers, drug withdrawal, low blood sugar and head trauma can also cause seizures. This is why it is important to go to your nearest health centre to determine cause.
Other symptoms of epilepsy include:
– Short blackouts, memory loss or confusion
– Repeated fainting
– Loss of bladder control
– Repeated blinking
– Repeated movements
– Extreme tiredness
– Low motor control or stiffness
– Inability to communicate – this tends to especially happen just before seizures
– Irritability, anger, aggressiveness- these also tend to happen just before a seizure

Having reoccurring seizures can take a serious toll on someone’s life, affecting them physically, mentally and socially. Seizures can cause physical damage to the body, especially if they occur when the individual is standing, driving, cooking and so on. Those with epilepsy typically have learning difficulties and behavioural problems. The effect these can have on relationships, work life as well as the stigma attached can cause various forms of anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

However, in Guyana, I believe the lack of knowledge and understanding of the disorder causes more challenges to the individual than the symptoms itself. My eyes opened to this during my first month returning and working in our community. Two frustrated parents brought their five-year-old child to Georgetown Public Hospital. They explained to my boss (who I was shadowing) that their son is ‘unruly’ and ‘never listens’. They claimed that they would tell him to do something and instead of doing it, he would suck his teeth and turn his head. They took this as insubordination and would lose patience and hit the child. They believed it would “help him listen”. After a full examination, my boss said to the parents that the child had epilepsy and the turning of his head and sucking of his teeth formed part of a type of seizure. That day (and still now) I wondered how many other families are suffering and hoped that they would all reach out for help.

Who is at risk for Epilepsy?
There are various causes of epilepsy and seizures. Like anything else, there is a genetic component. One is more likely to develop Epilepsy if other family members have already developed it. Head trauma/injuries, infectious diseases such as AIDS, prenatal injuries and developmental disorders such as autism, increase the risk of epilepsy. Underlying brain injuries and conditions such as strokes or tumours can also cause the condition.

How is Epilepsy treated?
Epilepsy cannot be cured but, rather, effectively treated. The best course is prescription medication and weekly counselling. The medication is to lower and control the seizures while the counselling helps with the subsequent consequences of the disorder. If medications are ineffective, surgery is sometimes necessary to lower seizures.
Certain diets have been proven to improve the overall health of the affected individual. The Ketogenic diet is often recommended for children with epilepsy, especially if they have frequent seizures. This involves high fats but low carbohydrates. For the older generation with epilepsy, the Atkins diet is recommended.
A beneficial behavioural change would be to keep a seizure journal. This really helps to identify one’s triggers and lowers the possibility of seizures. Keep a note of when a seizure happens, what you were doing just before and how much you slept. A helpful pattern will show up.
Every treatment is individualistic and depends on the person’s age, family history, medical history and overall health. In 2013, researches from the UK determined that those with epilepsy live an average of 11 years less than the general population.
If you feel like you or a family member might be suffering from epilepsy, please go into your nearest health centre. If you have any other condition for which you would like to spread awareness, please write in and let me know!
Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@gmail.com. Also please remember when you can come see me.
Georgetown Public Hospital: Monday- Friday – 8am- 12pm
Woodlands Hospital: Outpatient Department
Drug and Alcohol group meetings – Mondays 4:00pm
Good mental health group meetings- Wednesdays 4:00pm
Suicide Prevention Helpline Numbers: 223-0001, 223-0009, 623-4444, 600-7896
Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs! Always!