FATIMA SANA SHAIKH DIAGNOSED WITH EPILEPSY

It is a disorder in which nerve cell activity in the brain is disturbed, causing seizures.

Talking about her diagnosis, Fatima said, “was diagnosed when I was training for 'Dangal'. I got an episode and woke up straight at the hospital...was in denial first (for five years). And now, I have learnt to embrace it, and work and live around it."

"I mean I have to go a bit slow. But I can do everything. There are some odd and tough days. That slows me down. But I have been fortunate enough to work with people I have been dying to work with. And this has not affected my passion and neither have I ever compromised on any effort to do my best. In fact it pushes and drives me to work harder."

Epilepsy has no identifiable cause in about half the people with the condition. In the other half, the condition may be traced to various factors, including: Genetic influence, Head trauma, Brain abnormalities, Infections, Prenatal injury, Developmental disorders.

Epilepsy is caused by abnormal activity in the brain, seizures can affect any process our brain coordinates. Signs and symptoms may include: Temporary confusion, A staring spell, Stiff muscles, Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs, Loss of consciousness or awareness, Psychological symptoms such as fear, anxiety or deja vu

Epilepsy is usually treated by medication and in some cases by surgery, devices or dietary changes. Medication may include- nerve pain medication, sedatives, anticonvulsants.