Convulsions or Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that is characterised by constant seizures or fits. Generalised abnormal movements of the limbs or the body with or without consciousness is called a fit. There are also other forms without the classical seizure.

Convulsions are contagious
nConvulsions is not a disease but a condition where there are recurrent seizures or fits. Seizure is a temporary state of abnormal electrical activity within the brain that occurs only occasionally.

People with convulsion are mentally ill or retarded
Although convulsions are related to the brain, it does not indicate that a person is mentally ill or mentally retarded. Convulsion is a physical condition and not related to mental illness or intelligence.

During a fit, the  person will swallow the tongue and suffocate
It is not possible to swallow the tongue, yet many people will try to help a person having a seizure by forcing their mouth open and trying to hold their tongue.

This can be dangerous both to the person helping as they may get bitten and the person having the seizure as they may have their teeth damaged. However, a person should be rolled on their side during a convulsive seizure to ensure that their airway is not blocked.

In all cases of fits, the person becomes stiff and jerking of limbs occurs
There are many different types of convulsions involving different parts of the brain depending on which part of the brain is involved, as there will be different symptoms.

For example, one may experience sudden loss of muscle definition or can give blank stares or there can be rapid blinking or intense emotional and physical sensations.

Giving an iron rod or key to a person suffering from fits will help cure it
nOne cannot physically stop an attack of convulsion. During an attack, ease the person to the floor or away from sharp or hard objects and loosen the shirt collar if necessary.

Only children get convulsions
Convulsions can happen to anyone. It is most common in children but those above 65 years or older are also more likely to develop the disorder than younger adults. Brain disorders and stroke are common causes of epilepsy in the elderly.

Convulsions are life threatening
The threat to life is more likely to be from accidents or injuries.

Also patients who go into status epilepticus must be treated immediately as it can lead to serious brain damage or loss of life.

People with convulsions are disabled and can't work
People with this condition have the same abilities and intelligence as the rest of us. Some have severe fits and cannot work while others are successful and productive in challenging careers.

Alternative therapies are useful  treating fits
Dhara that is an Ayurvedic treatment along with breathing exercises have given a tremendous positive effect on reducing the attacks. Also the regular use of herbal oil preparation applied on crown of head with medicines like Acorus Calamus, Clitorira terneata are useful for people suffering from convulsions.

Stress causes  convulsions
Convulsions are due to impaired electrical impulses in the brain. Stress does not cause but is one of the important trigger factors. Similarly, sleep deprivation is another major trigger factor in causing a seizure fit in a person suffering from convulsions.

Is diet important for people with convulsions?
It is important that people with convulsions follow a nutritious, well balanced diet. Ensure proper intake of nutrients through a diet containing adequate folic acid which is commonly found in raw and slightly cooked fruits and vegetables; calcium and magnesium where dairy products are the richest source; Vitamin B12, Vitamin K and Vitamin D found in fish oils, supplemented milk and leafy green vegetables and cereal grains.

People affected with convulsions need to be on long term medications
Yes. Most of the patients with convulsions who are given medications are tapered after 3 to 5 years. Specific drugs and whether more than one should be used are determined by various factors, including the patient's age, weight and the fits type, frequency, and cause.

Homeopathic medications are effective in convulsions
After a detailed evaluation, Constitutional Homeopathic medications are prescribed which help in controlling fits and also avoid further attacks.

Some of the medicines specific for convulsions are Bufo, Cuprum Met, Belladonna, Nux vomica, Silicea, Cicuta, Hyosyamus. These medicines have to be taken only under the supervision of the Homeopathic physician.
Eye strain cause  convulsions.

Nerve stress is one of the major causes for convulsions today. Anything that irritates the brain like eyestrain can lead to convulsions. Hence too much of TV watching or working in front of computers can be a factor causing convulsions.