- Myth: Epilepsy is a rare condition. Epilepsy is not rare. It affects approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide. In the United States alone, about 3.4 million people have epilepsy.
- Myth: Epilepsy is always genetic: While genetics can play a role in some cases of epilepsy, many cases have no known cause (idiopathic). Epilepsy can also be acquired due to factors such as brain injury, infection, stroke, or tumors.
- Myth: People with epilepsy are intellectually or physically disabled. Epilepsy does not necessarily affect intelligence or physical abilities. Many individuals with epilepsy lead normal lives, holding jobs, pursuing education, and participating in activities like anyone else.
- Myth: Epilepsy is contagious. Tepilepsy is not contagious. You cannot catch epilepsy from someone who has it, even during a seizure.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Seizures happen due to sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain, which can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the type of seizure and the area of the brain affected.
- Myth: You should restrain someone having a seizure. Restraint is not necessary during a seizure. Instead, move harmful objects away and cushion the person's head. Time the seizure and offer support until it ends naturally.
- Myth: Epilepsy can be cured with medication. While antiepileptic medications can effectively control seizures in many people, they do not cure epilepsy. Some individuals may outgrow epilepsy, but for others, it is a lifelong condition.
- Myth: People with epilepsy cannot drive. Regulations on driving with epilepsy vary by location. In many places, individuals with epilepsy can drive if their seizures are well-controlled and they meet specific licensing requirements.
- Myth: Epilepsy only affects children. Epilepsy can develop at any age, from infancy through old age. It is true that certain types of epilepsy are more common in childhood, but adults can also develop epilepsy.
- Myth: All seizures look the same. Seizures can manifest in various ways. They range from generalized convulsions (tonic-clonic seizures) to absence seizures (brief loss of awareness) to focal seizures (affecting specific parts of the brain), each with distinct symptoms.
- Myth: People with epilepsy cannot lead a normal life. With proper management and treatment, many individuals with epilepsy can lead full, productive lives. This includes maintaining relationships, pursuing careers, and participating in recreational activities.