1. Everyone Who Has Seizures Has Epilepsy
Not true. While epilepsy is a well-known cause of seizures, it’s not the only one. Epilepsy involves abnormal electrical activity in the brain, but seizures can also happen for other reasons — like low blood sugar, heart problems, or even extreme stress.
A common type of non-epileptic seizure is known as a dissociative seizure or psychogenic non-epileptic seizure (PNES). These are often linked to psychological trauma or mental health conditions. Interestingly, about 10% of people with PNES also have epilepsy.
2. People With Epilepsy Can’t Have Jobs
This is simply a myth. People with epilepsy can absolutely work — including in demanding professions. Dr. Segil told Medical News Today that as long as their seizures are well-controlled with medication, most people with epilepsy can pursue careers.
He even noted that he knows fellow physicians who have epilepsy. That said, some safety-sensitive jobs, like airline pilot or commercial truck driver, may not be permitted.
3. Epilepsy Is Contagious
Nope — epilepsy is not something you can catch from someone else. This myth still lingers in some communities, but there’s zero scientific basis for it.
The causes of epilepsy are often hard to pinpoint. According to the World Health Organization, about 50% of cases worldwide have no known cause. Some known triggers include:
- Brain injury during birth
- Genetic conditions or brain malformations
- Head trauma
- Stroke
- Brain infections like meningitis
- Tumors or certain syndromes
4. People With Epilepsy Are Emotionally Unstable
There’s a lot of harmful stigma around epilepsy — including the false belief that it makes people emotionally unstable.
Dr. Segil puts it plainly: “Patients with epilepsy are not emotionally unstable.”
It’s understandable that living with an unpredictable condition like epilepsy can cause stress, but most people with epilepsy live full, emotionally balanced lives — especially when their condition is well managed.
5. Epilepsy Is a Mental Illness
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, not a mental illness. As the Epilepsy Foundation states, most people with epilepsy have no cognitive or psychological problems.
Psychological issues may occur in people with severe or poorly controlled epilepsy, but that’s not the norm.
6. All Epileptic Seizures Involve Convulsions
Seizures don’t always look like the dramatic convulsions often shown on TV. In fact, there are over 40 types of seizures, and many are subtle.
Some people may just stare off blankly for a few seconds, seem confused, or make repetitive movements. Not all seizures involve shaking or loss of consciousness.
7. You Should Put Something in a Person’s Mouth During a Seizure
This is a dangerous myth. Never try to put anything in someone’s mouth during a seizure. According to the CDC, doing so could cause injury to their teeth or jaw.
8. You Should Hold Someone Down During a Seizure
Another harmful myth. Most seizures only last 30 to 90 seconds, and holding someone down can make things worse.
Dr. Segil explains that epileptic seizures can’t be stopped by restraint — so there’s no benefit, and it could cause injury. Instead, gently roll the person onto their side, protect their head, and let the seizure run its course.
Filming the seizure (if safe to do so) can also help doctors better understand the patient’s condition.
9. Seizures Are Painful
While some people may feel sore or tired afterward, pain during a seizure is rare. A study from the Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center found that less than 1% of people reported pain during a seizure.
However, pain can occur after a seizure due to muscle strain, headaches, or injury from falling.
10. Strobe Lights Always Trigger Seizures
Only a small percentage — about 5% — of people with epilepsy have photosensitive epilepsy, where flashing lights can trigger seizures.
Even for them, it’s not just strobe lights. Other visual stimuli, like certain patterns or screen flicker, can also act as triggers.
11. People With Epilepsy Shouldn’t Get Pregnant
False. Women with epilepsy can absolutely have healthy pregnancies. However, doctors do consider it high-risk, which just means more frequent check-ups.
Some seizure medications aren’t safe during pregnancy, but many are. Dr. Segil notes that by 2021, several safe options are available for both the mother and baby.
12. People Can Swallow Their Tongue During a Seizure
This myth is widespread — but completely false. It’s physically impossible to swallow your tongue.
What can happen is that someone might bite their tongue or lips during a seizure, which can be painful or cause bleeding. Again, don’t try to put anything in their mouth — it does more harm than good.
FAQs About Epilepsy
Q: Is epilepsy genetic?
A: It can be. Some forms of epilepsy have a genetic component, but many are caused by injury or unknown factors.
Q: Can people with epilepsy drive?
A: Yes, but it depends on whether their seizures are under control. Most states have specific rules about seizure-free periods before someone can drive.
Q: How is epilepsy diagnosed?
A: Usually through neurological exams, EEG (electroencephalogram), brain imaging (like MRI), and a detailed medical history.
Q: Can epilepsy be cured?
A: For most people, epilepsy is a lifelong condition, but many can become seizure-free with proper treatment.
Q: What should I do if someone has a seizure?
A: Stay calm. Protect their head, roll them onto their side, and time the seizure. If it lasts more than 5 minutes or they don’t regain consciousness, call emergency services.
Conclusion: Better Awareness Means Better Lives
Epilepsy is surrounded by misunderstanding — but education changes everything. By replacing fear and myths with facts, we can better support those living with epilepsy and help them live full, empowered lives.
If you or someone you know has epilepsy, talk to a neurologist, stay informed, and know that with the right care, life with epilepsy can be stable, successful, and fulfilling.