Epilepsy Myths vs. Facts: What You Really Need to Know

Austin Cole
May 26
5 min read

Updated: Jun 1

Living with epilepsy (or supporting someone who does) can be confusing when myths and rumors float around. The truth is, epilepsy is common – roughly 1% of U.S. adults have it – and most people with epilepsy lead full, active lives. Unfortunately, misunderstanding and stigma still exist. Let’s set the record straight on some really common myths, especially those young adults often hear, and share the facts (all backed by science and major health organizations). You can stay empowered: knowing the facts helps you live independently, rock your goals, and help others understand what epilepsy really means.

Myth: Epilepsy is contagious

Fact: Epilepsy is a neurological condition, not an infection. You cannot “catch” epilepsy from someone, no matter how close you are. It is simply not contagious – just like migraine or asthma, it’s about brain activity, not germs. In fact, in about half of epilepsy cases the cause is unknown, and only in a few percent is there a family link. Even if you live or share drinks with someone who has epilepsy, you have zero risk of developing it from them.

Myth: All seizures involve violent shaking or fits

Fact: Seizures can look very different. People assume epilepsy always means full-body convulsions, but that’s only one type. Seizures can be as subtle as briefly staring into space, lip smacking, or mild jerking of one limb. The most common seizure types (called “focal seizures”) often involve just a pause or blank stare. So if a friend with epilepsy seems fine most of the time, don’t assume they’re pretending – many seizures simply aren’t obvious to bystanders.

Myth: Epilepsy means “mental illness” or low intelligence

Fact: Epilepsy is a brain disorder, not a psychiatric problem. Having epilepsy does not mean someone is “crazy” or intellectually disabled. Seizures come from electrical signals in the brain; they don’t make a person less smart or emotionally unstable. Most people with epilepsy have average (or above‑average) intellect. It’s crucial to remember that your value and abilities aren’t defined by epilepsy.

Myth: If you have epilepsy, you must avoid sports, working out, or active hobbies

Fact: You can be active and fit with epilepsy. In fact, regular exercise often helps the brain and may even reduce seizures. The key is doing activities safely (for example, avoid swimming alone) and telling your coach or trainer about your epilepsy so they can help if needed. Don’t assume you have to quit sports or the gym – the goal of treatment is actually to let you be seizure‑free so you can play and exercise normally.

Myth: You can’t drive, hold a job, or live independently if you have epilepsy

Fact: Most people with epilepsy lead independent lives. It’s true that uncontrolled seizures can restrict things like driving or certain jobs, but many people with epilepsy drive, work, and thrive. With treatment, seizures can be controlled, and after a seizure‑free period (often 6–12 months, depending on state laws) many people regain driving privileges. People with epilepsy go to college, start careers, travel, and form families just like anyone else. It’s controlling seizures – usually with medication – that really makes these things possible. So the myth that all jobs or goals are off‑limits is false. (Of course, some employers or fields may have specific requirements, but accommodations and treatments continue to improve so epilepsy rarely blocks you forever.) In short, having epilepsy doesn’t mean you can’t dream big – and resources like the Epilepsy Foundation can help you navigate things like driving laws and job help.

Myth: If someone’s seizing, you must stuff something in their mouth (to stop them swallowing their tongue)

Fact: Don’t do that – it’s dangerous and unnecessary. This is a very common myth seen in movies and even learned by well‑meaning people. In reality, no one can swallow their tongue during a seizure – it’s physically impossible. Forcing something into the mouth can actually break teeth or cause choking. The correct first‑aid is summarized as “Stay. Safe. Side.” – stay with the person, keep them safe from injury (move hard objects away), and gently turn them on their side so they can breathe and any fluids can drain. Time the seizure, and seek medical help if it goes on too long. Remember: you don’t need to restrain or feed them. Simply support them safely and let the seizure run its course.

Myth: Epilepsy is inherited/genetic

Fact: Often the cause is unknown, and most cases aren’t directly inherited. It’s true that some forms of epilepsy have genetic factors, but many people develop epilepsy after a brain injury, infection, or for no known reason. About 75% of cases have no clear cause. You are not doomed to have seizures forever just because of genes. Moreover, having epilepsy yourself doesn’t guarantee your child will have it. Even if one parent has epilepsy, the child’s risk is only about 5–10% (compared to ~1‑2% in the general population). Studies show that over 90% of women with epilepsy have healthy babies, and epilepsy medications have been improved for safety in pregnancy. In short, epilepsy is rarely simply “passed down,” and most people with epilepsy go on to have families and healthy children.

Myth: Having epilepsy means you can’t have a normal romantic or family life

Fact: People with epilepsy have fulfilling relationships and families. Many people worry that epilepsy will scare off dates or make marriage impossible. The truth is that many people with epilepsy have fulfilling relationships. It might require some open communication (for example, let partners know what to do during a seizure), but epilepsy doesn’t prevent love or intimacy. Couples where one partner has epilepsy learn together; being supportive (sharing feelings, taking meds together, etc.) actually can strengthen bonds. If and when you decide to have kids, modern care has you covered: as noted above, 90% of kids born to moms with epilepsy are perfectly healthy. There is slightly higher risk of complications, but doctors can monitor carefully and most pregnancies with epilepsy go normally. So don’t feel like epilepsy must limit your love life or family dreams – plenty of people with epilepsy date, marry, and parent just like anyone else.

There are tons of myths about epilepsy, but facts are powerful. Most people with epilepsy are just like anyone else once their seizures are managed: they have jobs, friends, partners, families, and goals. We hope this clears up some confusion. Always remember to ask your doctor, epilepsy nurse, or a trusted medical site (like the CDC, WHO, or Epilepsy Foundation) if you’re unsure. And if you ever feel isolated or stressed, reach out – there are support groups and helplines. You’re not alone, and knowing the facts can help you and those around you challenge stigma.

References