Epilepsy is still widely misunderstood by the public. Many people believe that it is a contagious disease, a mental disorder, or a condition that cannot be treated. In fact, medically, epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can be effectively managed with appropriate care.
According to dr Wienorman Gunawan, Sp.BS, a neurosurgeon at Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong, epilepsy occurs due to disturbances in the brain’s electrical activity. “The human brain functions using electrical signals. In people with epilepsy, there are abnormal and recurrent surges of these signals, which trigger seizures or disturbances in consciousness,” he explained.
Epilepsy Is Not a Contagious Disease
One of the most common myths is the belief that epilepsy can be transmitted. dr Wienorman emphasised that this is not true. Epilepsy is not caused by an infection and cannot spread from one person to another.
“Epilepsy is also not a mental disorder. It is a medical condition directly related to brain function. Simply put, it is not something mystical, but rather an issue of electrical activity in the brain,” he added.
Epilepsy can be caused by various factors, including a history of head injury, congenital disorders, brain infections, stroke, brain tumours, or other structural abnormalities in the brain. However, in some patients, the exact cause cannot always be clearly identified.
Symptoms of Epilepsy Can Vary
Not all cases of epilepsy are characterised by severe seizures. In some individuals, epilepsy may present as sudden blank stares, brief lapses in awareness, repetitive minor movements, or short episodes of loss of consciousness. Due to its varied symptoms, epilepsy is often not recognised early.
“If there are frequent ‘blank’ episodes or seizures without fever, they should not be ignored. It is the brain’s way of signalling that something needs to be examined,” said dr Wienorman.
First Aid During an Epileptic Seizure
When witnessing someone experiencing an epileptic seizure, the first step is to remain calm. Important actions include:
- Positioning the person on their side to keep the airway open
- Removing any hard or sharp objects nearby
- Loosening clothing around the neck
- Noting the duration of the seizure, if possible
It is important not to place any objects into the person’s mouth or to forcibly restrain their movements. After the seizure subsides, allow the individual to rest until they regain full consciousness.
For patients, seizures may take control of the body for a few minutes, but they should not take away one’s dignity or quality of life. Proper management in the right setting, such as the Neurology and Neurosurgery Clinic at Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong, goes beyond prescribing anti-seizure medication—it also helps patients regain control and confidence in their daily lives.
dr Margareth Aryani Santoso, MARS, Director of Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong, emphasised the hospital’s commitment to providing comprehensive epilepsy care.
“Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong, under Bethsaida Healthcare, is supported by a Neurology and Neurosurgery Clinic with experienced doctors, complete diagnostic facilities, and a multidisciplinary approach to ensure that every epilepsy patient receives appropriate, safe, and quality-of-life-oriented care,” she said.
Epilepsy is not a condition to be feared, but it should not be ignored. With proper understanding, correct first aid, and guidance from experienced specialists, epilepsy can be well managed, allowing patients to lead active and productive lives.