Epilepsy burden high in India with 15 million cases, stigma delays diagnosis and care

Hyderabad: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder marked by repeated seizures caused by sudden disturbances in the brain’s electrical activity. Doctors say that despite medical advances and available treatment, many patients in India still delay diagnosis and care due to fear, stigma and misinformation.

15 million Indians living with epilepsy

Estimates suggest that more than 15 million people in India are living with epilepsy. Specialists warn that awareness, timely diagnosis and continued treatment can help most patients control seizures and lead normal lives.

What happens during a seizure

Dr Madhukar Bhardwaj, Director and HOD of Neurology, Aakash Healthcare, explained that seizures occur due to a temporary disruption in the brain’s electrical signals.

“A seizure occurs when the brain’s electrical signals stop working normally for a short time. Because of this, a person may shake, fall, stare blankly or lose awareness. Some seizures are mild and last only a few seconds, while others can be more serious,” he said.

Doctors note that seizures do not always appear dramatic and may sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.

Not all seizures involve convulsions

Dr Praveen Gupta, Chairman, Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro and Spine (MAIINS), said many cases go unnoticed because symptoms can be subtle.

“Not all seizures involve shaking,” said Dr Praveen Gupta. “Some seizures look like daydreaming or confusion, which is why epilepsy is often missed. Early diagnosis is very important.”

He added, “Epilepsy affects people of all ages, but many patients reach us very late because of fear and wrong information. With timely treatment, most patients can live a completely normal life.”

Major causes and risk factors

According to neurologists, epilepsy has multiple causes, and in many cases, the exact reason cannot be identified.

Dr Neha Kapoor, Associate Director and Head-Neurology, Asian Hospital, said, “The causes of epilepsy are different for different people. In many cases, doctors cannot find an exact cause. However, epilepsy can happen due to family history, head injuries from accidents, brain infections like meningitis, strokes or brain damage.”

She added that childhood epilepsy may be linked to birth-related complications. “In children, epilepsy may be caused by a lack of oxygen at birth or problems in brain development before birth. Stress, lack of sleep and alcohol can trigger seizures, but they are not the direct cause of epilepsy.”

Treatment can control most cases

Doctors say epilepsy should be treated like other long-term illnesses, such as diabetes or hypertension. With regular medication, seizure control is possible for most patients.

Nearly 70 per cent of people with epilepsy can control seizures through consistent use of anti-seizure medicines. Specialists stress that stopping medication without medical advice can increase seizure risk.

Myths and harmful practices still common

Neurologists report that social stigma and myths continue to delay treatment, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.

Dr Madhukar Bhardwaj said many false beliefs still circulate. “Some people believe it is caused by ghosts or black magic. Others think it spreads by touch or that people with epilepsy cannot study, work, or get married. Another dangerous belief is that something should be put into the mouth during a seizure. All these beliefs are false and can harm the patient.”

Doctors advise that during a seizure, bystanders should keep the person safe from injury, turn them to one side if possible, and seek medical help if the episode is prolonged, but never force objects into the mouth.

Options for drug-resistant epilepsy

For patients whose seizures are not controlled by medicines, known as drug-resistant epilepsy, advanced treatment options are now available in India.

Dr Praveen Gupta said, “In India, epilepsy surgery is also being used successfully. Surgeons carefully locate the part of the brain causing seizures and remove or treat it safely. This can greatly reduce or even stop seizures, giving patients a much better quality of life.”

He added, “Surgery is usually considered only after medicines have been tried, but it offers hope for those with drug-resistant epilepsy.”

He further noted, “Modern treatment options, including advanced surgery and neuro-robotic techniques, are offering new hope to patients. These treatments are changing outcomes.”

Impact on sexual health in men

Specialists also highlight that epilepsy and its treatment may affect sexual health in some men.

Dr Vineet Malhotra, Principal Consultant, Urology, Sexology, Andrology, Infertility Treatment, SCM Healthcare, said epilepsy can influence sexual wellbeing. “Seizures, stress and some anti-seizure medicines may sometimes lower energy, affect hormone levels, or reduce sexual desire.”

He added that support is available. Doctors can help manage these concerns through lifestyle advice, medication adjustments, and counselling so that patients can maintain healthy and active lives.

Need for awareness and early care

Doctors emphasise that epilepsy is a medical condition, not a social or supernatural issue. With early diagnosis, regular treatment and correct public knowledge, most patients can manage seizures effectively and participate fully in education, work, and family life.