Epilepsy Awareness, Aid and Research Foundation (EAARF)

Is your child having recurrent episodes of "daydreaming" or "absentmindedness" ? Do not always assume that your child's distant stare or "daydreaming" is just a normal part of childhood. In some cases, this absentmindedness could be a sign of a seizure. What are Absence Seizures? Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are a type of epilepsy that affects children and adolescents. During an absence seizure, the child stops whatever they were doing, may appear to be staring blankly, unresponsive, and unaware of their surroundings. These seizures are usually brief, lasting only a few seconds, and may occur multiple times a day. Signs and Symptoms So, how can you tell if your child's "daydreaming" is actually an absence seizure? Look out for these signs: - Sudden, brief episodes of staring or blankness - Unresponsiveness to their environment or stimuli - No warning signs or auras before the seizure - No loss of muscle tone or convulsions - Quick return to normal behavior after the seizure What to Do If You Suspect Absence Seizures. If you've noticed recurring episodes of absentmindedness or daydreaming in your child, consult with a pediatrician or a neurologist. Don't Ignore the Signs Absence seizures can be treated with medication, and early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications and improve quality of life. If you're concerned about your child's behavior, don't hesitate to seek medical attention. Share this post to raise awareness about absence seizures! #Absenceseizures #epilepsyawareness #Childhealth #seizuredisorder #neurology #childneurology

The information about epilepsy that you give to others can misinform and mislead them. Make sure your information is accurate and reliable. Watch this short video and learn more about epilepsy, and spread the word. #epilepsyawareness

HAPPY NEW YEAR to every person living with epilepsy out there. May the year 2025 be filled with: More seizure-free days, weeks, and months. Increased awareness and acceptance Advances in treatment and care Strength, resilience, and hope You are not alone, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Wishing you a happy, healthy, and empowering 2025! #EpilepsyAwareness #NewYear #2025

Epilepsy is a disease caused by a dysfunctioning human brain. Anyone who has a brain can develop epilepsy. Epilepsy is not a disease of "cursed" or "demon possessed" people. Epilepsy is a disorder that affects the brain's electrical activity, causing repeated seizures. It is not a curse, nor is it a sign of demonic possession. Epilepsy can affect anyone, regardless of their age, sex, or background. It is estimated that over 60 million people worldwide live with epilepsy, and nearly 80% of them live in low- and middle-income countries. Let's promote awareness and reduce epilepsy stigma. #EpilepsyAwareness #epilepsyisnotcontagious

In many communities in Africa, people with epilepsy are confronted daily by several challenges especially those related to stigma. Community misconceptions about epilepsy often push people to mistreat, bully and socially exclude people with epilepsy. A seizure can be life-threatening especially if it last for 5 minutes or more. During a seizure, the person seizing needs support and help. However, people usually run away leaving the person with epilepsy helpless. Many deaths associated with epilepsy could have be prevented if someone had stopped by to help a person with epilepsy during a seizure. As a community, we can make a difference! A little bit of kindness towards people with epilepsy especially during a seizure can be life-saving. Here are some ways you can show kindness and support people with epilepsy: 1. Educate yourself: Learn about epilepsy, and educate others. 2. Be patient and understanding: People with epilepsy may need time to recover after a seizure or take longer time to understand things. 3. Use respectful language: Avoid using hurtful or insulting words. 4. Offer support: Ask how you can help, whether it's encouraging them to seek medical attention or providing emotional support. 5. Be seizure-aware: Know what to do during a seizure (e.g., keep the person safe, turn them onto their side, and stay with them until the seizure ends). By being kind, understanding, and supportive, we can create a more inclusive and safe community for people with epilepsy. Let's spread awareness, challenge stigma, and promote kindness! Remember to always stop and help anyone who is having a seizure. Epilepsy is not contagious, kindness is. #EpilepsyAwareness #KindnessMatters #Inclusion #Support

Last week, we organized an educative activity on epilepsy and brain health with over 1000 students. This was done in collaboration with @community_health_promoters The objective was to educate students about epilepsy, its causes, symptoms, and management, as well as promote brain health awareness. Activities included interactive question and answer, brain models illustrating different parts of the brain with their functions, and infographics on seizure first aid Students and teachers provided positive feedback, expressing appreciation for the informative and engaging presentation. #EpilepsyAwareness #BrainHealthandPrevention #healthpromotion #healthpromotingschool

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, yet stigma and misinformation persist. It's time to break the barriers! Join us in raising awareness and supporting those affected by epilepsy. Educate yourself and others about epilepsy. Support organizations working towards epilepsy research, education and advocacy. Together, we can: Break barriers of stigma and misconceptions. Empower individuals with epilepsy. Advance research for better treatments and a cure. Let's make a difference! #EpilepsyAwareness #BreakTheStigma #SeizureFirstAid #EpilepsySupport

Break the Stigma, Spread Awareness: Learn About Epilepsy! Despite its high prevalence in Africa, epilepsy is still masked by misinformation and stigma. Let's change this! Become a source of epilepsy information, not misinformation! Learn the facts: Epilepsy is NOT contagious Epilepsy is NOT a sign of demonic possession Epilepsy CAN be treated with medicines Support those affected: Listen without judgment Offer help, not stigma Encourage inclusivity Together, let's: Break stigma Spread awareness Empower those affected Share this post and join the movement! #EpilepsyAwareness #BreakTheStigma #LearnTheFacts #SupportInclusion

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain that affects millions of people worldwide, and it is not related to witchcraft or any supernatural forces. Epilepsy Facts: 1. Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent seizures. 2. Seizures occur when abnormal electrical activity in the brain disrupts normal brain function. 3. Epilepsy can be caused by various factors, including genetics, head trauma, infections, and brain tumors. 🛑Anything that can damage the brain can cause epilepsy. 4. Epilepsy affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. 5. With proper treatment, many people with epilepsy can control their seizures and lead fulfilling lives. Epilepsy is not a sign of demonic possession or witchcraft. People with epilepsy are not "cursed" or "possessed." Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for people with epilepsy. #epilepsyisnotcontagious #stopthestigma #epilepsyawareness #endepilepsystigma

Did you know that cerebral or severe malaria can increase the risk of developing epilepsy? Cerebral malaria, a complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection, can cause: 1. Brain inflammation 2. Damage to brain tissue 3. Disruption of normal brain function This can lead to: 1. Seizures 2. Epilepsy Children between 0-5 years are particularly vulnerable to the effects of malaria on the brain because: 1. Immature immune system: Young children's immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to severe malaria. 2. Cerebral malaria: This age group is more prone to cerebral malaria, which can cause brain inflammation, seizures, and long-term neurological damage. 3. Blood-brain barrier: The blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances, is not fully developed in young children, allowing malaria parasites to easily cross into the brain. 4. Limited diagnostic capabilities: Young children often can't articulate their symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. 5. Increased risk of seizures: Malaria-induced seizures can lead to epilepsy, developmental delays, and cognitive impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment of malaria can prevent cerebral complications. Take Action: 1. Prevent malaria through mosquito control measures (nets, repellents, etc.). 2. Seek immediate medical attention if your child has symptoms of malaria. Let's raise awareness about childhood epilepsies! Share this post to educate others! #MalariaAndEpilepsy #BreakTheCycle #EpilepsyAwareness #MalariaPrevention #Brainhealthinchildren #childhoodepilepsies #campaign #Aviva #Avivafund Open Dreams Educational NGO