Stroke is the only condition with a higher number of patients than epilepsy

Epilepsy patients hospitalized at Military Hospital 175 are ranked second only to strokes, and many cases are misunderstood as mental illnesses. MSc. Hoang Tien Trong Nghia, Head of the Department of Neurology at the hospital, expressed concerns about the lack of understanding and misconceptions surrounding epilepsy, despite its prevalence among the population. He highlighted the need for awareness and education about this chronic disease.

Statistics on the number of people affected by epilepsy in Vietnam are not currently available. At the Department of Neurology at Military Hospital 175, stroke patients make up about 50% of cases, while epilepsy accounts for approximately 20-30%. The variety of symptoms associated with epilepsy, caused by factors such as genes, metabolic disorders, and brain damage, can lead to challenges in diagnosis and treatment.

Epilepsy presents differently depending on the area of the brain affected, with symptoms ranging from spasticity and convulsions to behavioral disorders. Some patients may have seizures that are difficult to describe or recognize, leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. The importance of accurate diagnosis through clinical tests and specialized equipment at units like the Clinical Neurophysiology Unit is crucial for successful treatment.

While medication remains a common treatment method for epilepsy, around 30% of diagnosed patients do not respond well to drugs. Limited access to anti-epileptic medications in Vietnam poses challenges for patients who require alternative treatments. The Vietnam Anti-Epileptic Association has developed guidelines for diagnosing and treating epilepsy, aiming to improve outcomes for patients across the country.

Training programs are being implemented to educate healthcare providers on identifying and managing epilepsy cases, particularly at the grassroots level. Referral to specialized centers for advanced treatments like epilepsy surgery is recommended for patients who do not respond to medication. Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment plans are essential for controlling epilepsy and preventing irreversible brain damage.

Patients with epilepsy are advised to follow their doctors’ instructions for long-term medication use, avoid triggers like lack of sleep and alcohol, and seek medical attention for any abnormalities. Early intervention and proper management can help epilepsy patients lead normal lives and reduce the risk of seizures.