The Hindu : Tamil Nadu / Chennai News : “Epilepsy can be controlled with proper monitoring”

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Saturday, Nov 28, 2009
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

“Epilepsy can be controlled with proper monitoring”

Staff Reporter

Photo: M.Vedhan

Dean of KMC, V.Kanagasabai, interacts with participants at the awareness programme on epilepsy at KMC Hospital recently. Head of the Department of Neurology, KMC, R.Lakshmi Narasimhan, is in the picture. —

CHENNAI: With proper monitoring and sustained intake of appropriate medicine, epilepsy can be controlled, said neurologists at an awareness programme held at Government Kilpauk Medical College (KMC) Hospital recently.

Organised by the neurology department of KMC, the programme was aimed at addressing the myths and stigma attached to the disease. Panellists from various city government hospitals said epilepsy is a medical condition and not mental illness. People of different age groups, even a six-month-old infant, can develop epileptic convulsions.

Elaborating on the first aid, assistant professor of neurology, KMC, M. Srinivasan said the patient must be made to lie down on his or her side and allowed free movement of air instead of restraining them. They must not be given food or water and avoid being given iron pieces such as keys to stop epileptic seizures.

Neurologists from other government hospitals, including S. Balasubramanian from Government Royapettah Hospital and Banu from Government General Hospital, listed out dos and don’ts for such patients. They must avoid watching television at a close distance, driving or swimming.

The significance of using a helmet while driving to avoid head injuries, which may lead to the condition, was also highlighted at the programme.

Head of the department of neurology, KMC, R. Lakshmi Narasimhan, said the hospital receives 400 outpatients every week. The disease can be controlled and cured among 70 per cent of patients if they undergo regular medication for five years.

Epileptic persons, particularly women, can marry and have children. Congenital anomalies can be avoided with prior treatment, ante-natal check-up and folic acid supplements, he said.

Dean of KMC V. Kanagasabai inaugurated the computerisation facility of the epilepsy outpatient ward. A painting competition for epileptic children was also organised on the occasion. The winners would get a cash prize of Rs.5,000 and also an opportunity to participate in the national-level competition.

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