‘My seizures weren't stopping': Fatima Sana Shaikh recalls mid-air medical scare, opens up about life with epilepsy; is flying safe for such patients?
'I had a major episode when I had multiple seizures. I was travelling to the USA via a Dubai flight. I got seizures on the flight. Then I was taken to the airport hospital, I was given the medication but then also my seizures weren't stopping, then they gave me a very high dose,' she shared. The episode left her immobile and heavily sedated, as doctors had to switch her medication mid-crisis.
At the time, she was juggling two film shoots — Sam Bahadur and, she believes, Dhak Dhak.
'I had to cancel the shoot. One of the guys called and asked if I could film, and I just started crying because I couldn't get out of bed. I was constantly blacking out. My emotions were all over the place. I was like — this is my reality now,' she said.
Eventually, she sought medical support, joined epilepsy support groups, and decided to speak openly about the condition. 'At that time, I accepted that this is my disease. And people should know about it, because it'll help others,' she said.
She hasn't had another seizure episode since then, and has been working to raise awareness and break the stigma around epilepsy.
'For most people with epilepsy, flying is considered medically safe, especially if their condition is well-managed with medication and regular follow-ups,' said Dr Shiva Kumar R, senior consultant epileptologist at Poorna Neuro Holistic Care and Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru, in a conversation with indianexpress.com. 'Air travel itself does not typically trigger seizures. However, factors like sleep deprivation, missed medication, stress or dehydration can increase risk in some individuals.'
The doctor also said that in cases where seizures are poorly controlled or occur frequently, especially generalised tonic-clonic seizures, doctors may advise postponing air travel until better control is achieved. Similarly, if someone has recently experienced a breakthrough seizure or change in medication, it is advisable to consult with a neurologist before planning a long-haul trip.
Preparation is key to ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for a person with epilepsy, said Dr Shiva Kumar. 'First, consult your neurologist before travelling to confirm that your condition is stable. Take medications exactly as prescribed, even if that means adjusting timings slightly to suit different time zones. Always carry extra doses in your hand luggage, ideally in the original packaging,' he said.
He also advised maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, and keeping stress levels low. 'Wearing a medical alert bracelet and discreetly informing a travel companion or airline staff can help ensure appropriate support if needed,' the doctor said.
If a seizure occurs onboard, it's important to remain calm. 'Most seizures resolve on their own within a few minutes,' said Dr Shiva Kumar, adding, 'The person should be gently turned onto their side to keep the airway clear, and nearby objects should be moved to prevent injury. There is no need to restrain movements or put anything in their mouth. After the seizure, allow the person to rest and regain awareness slowly.'
He also said, 'If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if multiple seizures occur without full recovery in between, it becomes a medical emergency and the flight crew should be notified immediately for further assistance.'
According to the doctor, travellers with epilepsy are also advised to carry a brief medical summary or a doctor's note with details of their diagnosis, current medication, and emergency instructions. This can help ensure the right response from crew and medical personnel at the destination if needed.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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