Epilepsy in Young Malaysian Adults: Breaking the Silence and Misconceptions Around Seizures
August 7, 2025
Index
In Malaysia, many patients come to me after months or even years of living with undiagnosed or untreated seizures, often because they were mislabelled as stress episodes, spiritual disturbances, or dismissed entirely. This delay can be dangerous and severely impact quality of life.
Epilepsy: A Common Yet Misunderstood Neurological Disorder
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. It is more common than many people realize—globally, over 50 million people live with epilepsy, and in Malaysia, an estimated 120,000 to 150,000 individuals are affected, with nearly 30% being under the age of 40, according to the Malaysian Society of Neurosciences (MSN).
Contrary to popular belief, epilepsy is not just a childhood condition. Adult-onset epilepsy—especially between ages 20 to 40—is increasingly diagnosed and often linked to factors such as:
- Traumatic brain injury (e.g., motorbike accidents)
- Stroke or vascular lesions
- Brain infections (meningitis, encephalitis)
- Genetic predisposition or unknown causes
A Real Case: Misdiagnosed for Years
One patient I recently treated was a 28-year-old woman working in digital marketing. She had been experiencing sudden episodes of blank staring, confusion, and brief limb jerks for nearly three years. Each time, she was told it was anxiety or burnout. By the time she reached our neurology department, her seizures had become more frequent and interfered with her ability to work or drive. After a thorough evaluation—including EEG and MRI—we diagnosed her with focal epilepsy.
With proper medication and lifestyle modifications, she regained control of her condition within months. But the delay in diagnosis cost her years of fear, self-doubt, and professional setbacks.
The Hidden Toll of Undiagnosed Epilepsy
When left untreated or inadequately managed, epilepsy can:
- Increase the risk of serious injury, including falls, burns, and drowning
- Lead to cognitive decline and memory issues
- Cause psychological distress—depression and anxiety affect over 40% of epilepsy patients
- Limit education, employment, and social participation, especially if stigmatized
The World Health Organization reports that up to 70% of people with epilepsy could live seizure-free with proper diagnosis and treatment—but stigma and lack of awareness remain major barriers.
The Role of a Neurologist in Epilepsy Diagnosis and Management
As a neurologist trained at the University of Malaya and further specialized in clinical neurophysiology, I focus on:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis to detect abnormal brain activity
- Neuroimaging (MRI/CT) to locate brain lesions or structural causes
- Differential diagnosis to distinguish epilepsy from non-epileptic seizures, panic attacks, or sleep disorders
- Personalized medication plans based on seizure type and patient lifestyle
- Coordinating long-term follow-up for medication adjustment, side effect monitoring, and psychological support
In some cases, patients may benefit from surgical evaluation or implantable devices such as vagus nerve stimulators.
The Emotional and Social Dimension: We Must Talk About It
One of the most damaging aspects of epilepsy is social stigma. In Malaysia, many young patients feel ashamed to talk about their diagnosis. Some families hide the condition due to fear of discrimination in marriage or employment. This must change.
Epilepsy is a medical condition, not a curse or weakness. It can be managed with the right support. But we must normalize conversations around it—just like we do with diabetes or high blood pressure.
I often work with counselors and support groups to empower young adults with epilepsy to continue their studies, careers, and relationships with confidence. Education is crucial—not just for patients, but for their families, employers, and society at large.
When to Seek Help
If you or someone you know experiences any of the following repeatedly, seek neurological evaluation:
- Sudden blackouts, even for a few seconds
- Involuntary jerking of limbs, especially during sleep or rest
- Brief periods of confusion or staring
- Sensory disturbances (smells, visions, sounds without clear cause)
- Unexplained falls or accidents
Early diagnosis not only reduces seizure frequency but also protects brain health and prevents injury.
Final Words from a Neurologist
Epilepsy is a journey—but it’s one that can be managed with knowledge, support, and the right medical care. If you have concerns, don’t delay. The earlier we diagnose, the more options we have to help you live fully and independently.
Let’s break the silence around epilepsy—so no young Malaysian adult has to suffer in fear or isolation.
Dr. Lim Wei Jian
Consultant Neurologist – Pantai Hospital, Kuala Lumpur
Specialist in Epilepsy, Seizure Disorders, and Neurodiagnostics
Consultant Neurologist – Pantai Hospital, Kuala Lumpur
Specialist in Epilepsy, Seizure Disorders, and Neurodiagnostics