Doc to discuss need to close the gap in epilepsy education

Dr. Marko Reumann will discuss “Epilepsy: Symptoms, Types and Treatments” at a free community education program from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Aug. 11, at Tutu’s House in Waimea.

Reumann, a physician at Big Island Comprehensive Neurological Services, wants to close the gap in epilepsy education, and is gearing his talk to everyone who is in a position to notice behaviors and help get children properly diagnosed, including medical professionals, service providers, counselors, teachers, caregivers, coaches, parents and family members.

He said epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders. It is characterized by repeated seizures, which are episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that lead to inattention or abnormal behavior. Nearly one in 100 Americans are affected, and approximately 1,500 people are expected to have epilepsy on the Big Island, many of whom have not been properly diagnosed.

Public understanding of this condition is limited, and misperceptions about epilepsy are frequent. Effective treatments for epilepsy are available, but timely referrals to specialized care are not always made.

Reumann knows that correct identification of seizure types starts in the community, and that raising awareness among family members, teachers, employers and others can help in early diagnosis and treatment.

Sometimes epilepsy is mistaken for other conditions, such as ADD, autism, hysteria and cognitive impairment, according to Reumann. People with epilepsy may also have associated health conditions that need to be addressed properly. Several quality-of-life aspects can be affected, and potentially dangerous situations in which a sudden loss of consciousness or change in awareness should be considered.

There are no fees to attend Tutu’s House programs. Visit the nonprofit organization’s newsletter at www.tutushouse.org, or call 885-6777 to register, said Tutu’s House program leader Lorraine Urbic.