Epilepsy: The Hidden Struggle Beyond Seizures

Letizia Mollinedo, now 26, was diagnosed with epilepsy at 17 after experiencing two seizures. The first occurred in Tunisia, mistaken for heat stroke, and the second happened at her university lunch table, leading to her diagnosis. This chronic neurological condition affects roughly one in every 100 individuals.

Mollinedo has spent a decade fine-tuning her medication and self-care routine, acknowledging the persistent side effects. She experiences tonic clonic seizures, which involve stiffening, convulsions, and loss of consciousness, often leaving her with no memory of the event itself.

Beyond the physical aspects, Mollinedo faced societal taboos and fear, often relying on dramatic media portrayals that don't reflect reality. She noted that public reactions are frequently driven by fear, and she advocates for greater understanding and reduced stigma.

Triggers for her seizures include sleep patterns and stress levels. Traveling with epilepsy has also presented significant hurdles, including a distressing incident in Switzerland where she required urgent care and incurred out-of-pocket expenses due to a lack of international health insurance.

Despite these challenges, Mollinedo remains optimistic, stressing the importance of preparation, such as ensuring sufficient medication and knowing local medical facilities, for continued travel. Money expert Hannah Mayfield advises travellers with pre-existing conditions to declare them for accurate insurance assessments, emphasizing protection over low cost.

Medical advice from Dr. Asimah Hanif outlines seizure first aid: staying calm, cushioning the head, loosening clothing, moving hazards, and placing the person in the recovery position. Emergency services should be called if a seizure lasts over five minutes, recurs quickly, is a first-time event, or results in injury. Restraining or moving individuals is discouraged unless in immediate danger.