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'Purple Day': Understanding Epilepsy disorder, its symptoms and treatment

'Purple Day' or Epilepsy Awareness Day was first observed on March 26, 2008

'Purple Day', is also known as Epilepsy Awareness Day. It is observed every year on March 26 with an aim to raise awareness around the fear and stigma attached to epilepsy.

Epilepsy is the most common chronic brain disease that is considered a neurological disorder. It can affect people of all ages. 

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Significance of 'Purple Day'

'Purple Day' or Epilepsy Awareness Day was first observed on March 26, 2008, through an event organized by Cassidy Megan from Nova Scotia, Canada. Megan was motivated by her own story of facing challenges due to epilepsy and the main aim of the event was to educate people about the neurological condition and to raise awareness by engaging them in various campaigns.

A user on Twitter wrote, "Was honoured to be asked by @Drcolabottle to do something for International Epilepsy Awareness Day on 26th March."

Today, Purple Day is a global celebration intended to raise awareness about epilepsy. People are urged to host events and wear purple on this day to support efforts to raise awareness about epilepsy. Purple Day in 2022 attracted participants from over 85 nations. Cassidy Megan chose the color purple because the flower lavender is internationally recognized as the flower for epilepsy.

Signs and Symptoms of Epilepsy

As Epilepsy is a neurological condition, mostly its symptoms include:

1. Seizures

2. Temporary confusion

3. A prolonged staring spell

4. Stiffness in muscles

5. Uncontrollable sudden jerking movements of the arms and legs

6. Loss of consciousness or awareness followed by seizures

Other symptoms include fear or anxiety.

A Twitter user wrote, "Hard to believe 8 years ago today in the early hours of the morning the day before National Epilepsy Awareness Day I would have my 1st seizure at the age of 38 & exactly 24hrs later had my 2nd one. #warriorNOTworrier #EpilepsyAwareness #fighter"

Is it curable?

There are various types of treatments available for Epilepsy. The first is drug therapy aimed at preventing seizures. There are numerous medications that can help to reduce abnormal brain activity. For a drug therapy to be effective, it is crucial that the patient takes the prescribed medication regularly and maintains good communication with their doctor.

If the tests reveal a structural issue in the brain, such as a tumor or abnormal blood vessels, surgical treatment such as tumor removal may be necessary. Another strategy would entail implanting an electronic pacemaker or using other cutting-edge seizure control treatment alternatives. These choices might not be appropriate for everyone, and their effectiveness in treating the illness might be constrained.