Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Surbhi Chaturvedi, Consultant Neurologist and Stroke Specialist

Busting the Epilepsy Myths by Neurologists in Bangalore

Epilepsy is one of the most misunderstood neurological disorders today. Many people still believe in incomplete knowledge and have fear-based assumptions. These epilepsy misconceptions often prevent patients from seeking early care and add to the anxiety of families already dealing with the condition.

Epilepsy is a medical condition that affects the electrical activity of the brain. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can live completely normal, productive lives.

Below are the most common epilepsy myths in India, clearly explained so that you can understand what is true and what is not. These topics reflect real concerns that patients and families share during consultations with the best neurologists in Bangalore.

12 Common Myths & Facts about Epilepsy

Myth 1: "Epilepsy is a mental illness"

Fact: Epilepsy is not a mental illness. It is a neurological condition caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It does not reflect a person's intelligence, personality, or emotional stability. Most people with epilepsy live completely normal lives with proper medical care.

Myth 2: "People with epilepsy can't live a normal life"

Fact: Epilepsy patients can lead normal lives with regular treatment and proper medication. Most can work, study, travel, and perform daily activities safely. Many occupations are completely possible unless seizures are uncontrolled. Modern treatment options at the best hospitals in Bangalore help patients manage their epilepsy symptoms effectively.

Myth 3: "Evil forces or past deeds cause epilepsy"

Fact: There is no scientific connection between epilepsy and paranormal beliefs. Causes of epilepsy include genetic factors, head injuries, infections, birth defects, stroke, and other brain conditions. There is clear medical evidence to suggest that this is one of the oldest epilepsy myths.

Myth 4: "People with epilepsy should not exercise or play sports"

Fact: Most people with epilepsy can safely participate in physical activities. Exercise can help improve overall health, mood, and sleep. Caution is warranted only for activities involving heights, deep water, or unsafe hazards. Epilepsy doctors guide patients in their physical activities based on seizure control.

Myth 5: "Epilepsy spreads from one person to another"

Fact: Epilepsy is not contagious. Epilepsy is not an infection and cannot be spread from person to person. You cannot catch epilepsy by touching, talking to, or helping someone during a seizure. It is a neurological condition caused by abnormal brain activity.

Myth 6: "Every seizure means epilepsy"

Fact: A single seizure does not necessarily mean epilepsy. Fever, low blood sugar, stress, infections, and some medications can cause temporary seizures. A person is only diagnosed with epilepsy when they have repeated, unprovoked seizures.

Myth 7: People with epilepsy can't work, marry, or have children"

Fact: Most people with epilepsy lead full lives, work, marry, and have children. Many jobs are possible when seizures are controlled with medication or other treatments. Some safety considerations exist for specific roles (e.g., driving, operating heavy machinery), but those are handled case by case.

Myth 8: "You must put keys or metal objects in the person's hand during a seizure"

Fact: This is a dangerous misconception. Metal objects do not stop seizures. Instead, focus on keeping the person safe, protecting their head, and turning them to the side. Forcing anything into their hand or mouth can cause injuries.

Myth 9: "Epilepsy medicines are harmful and should be avoided"

Fact: Anti-seizure medicines are safe when taken as prescribed. Stopping medications suddenly is far more dangerous. Doses and drug choices are tailored to each person to balance seizure control and side effects. Regular follow-up with a neurologist keeps treatment safe and effective.

Myth 10: "Seizures always look the same (violent shaking)"

Fact: Not all seizures involve shaking. Some seizures look like brief staring spells, confusion, sudden loss of awareness, or repetitive movements. Recognising different seizure types helps in timely diagnosis and treatment.

Myth 11: "Epilepsy don't have treatment"

Fact: There are many treatment options, including medication adjustments, epilepsy surgery, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), dietary therapies, and advanced monitoring available in major hospitals in Bangalore.

Myth 12: "Seizure first aid requires mouth-to-mouth or CPR during the seizure"

Fact: Do not attempt CPR or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while visible seizure activity is ongoing. Most people resume normal breathing after a seizure. Once the seizures have stopped, check for breathing; give emergency CPR only if the person is not breathing normally and you are trained to do so. Otherwise, place them in the recovery position and seek medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions