Epilepsy Treatment Complicated by Rising Youth Alcohol and Substance Use in Ranchi

Ranchi: On the occasion of International Epilepsy Day that was observed on Monday, doctors highlighted concerns over rising alcohol and substance use among young people, warning that these habits are complicating seizure management and epilepsy treatment.

Neurologists said changing lifestyles, stress, and misinformation are increasingly affecting treatment outcomes among adolescents and young adults.


Dr Manisha, neurologist at Paras Hospital, said, “Alcohol directly interferes with anti-seizure medications and hampers treatment. Many young patients continue drinking while on medication, which reduces effectiveness and ups chances of recurrent seizures.”

She noted a steady rise in youth cases linked to lifestyle habits. “Over the past six months, I have treated four to five seizure cases every month in younger age groups. Stress often pushes them towards alcohol or other substances. They feel it helps them cope, but in reality it worsens brain instability, creating a vicious cycle.”

On medical causes, she said, “Epilepsy is often linked to genetic factors, particularly in children, as well as birth-related complications. “In other cases, seizures may result from head injuries, accidents, or brain trauma. Patterns vary across age groups, but the encouraging part is that 70 to 80% of cases are controllable with medication and a stable lifestyle.”

Health experts also stressed that deaths due to epilepsy are rare. “In some instances, alcohol withdrawal can trigger loss of consciousness, convulsions, and accidental deaths, which are often mistakenly attributed to epilepsy,” Manisha said.

Ranchi civil surgeon Prabhat Kumar said, “Seizures and convulsions require prompt care. Early consultation and awareness can prevent serious complications.”

“In rural areas, the condition is still viewed as contagious or linked to possession. Patients face social isolation, are taken to tantriks, and encounter discrimination in marriage, employment, and daily life. Myths delay treatment and worsen outcomes,” said a doctor.