Myths about epilepsy
Now YOU know all about epilepsy, so let's deal with common myths and misunderstandings. People are becoming more aware of epilepsy, and these facts will help you to answer their questions.
| Myth | Epilepsy is a mental illness. |
| Fact | NA! Epilepsy is a physical disorder that has nothing to do with mental health or intelligence. |
| Myth | Epilepsy is contagious. |
| Fact | WRONG! It is impossible to "catch" epilepsy from someone who is having a seizure. |
| Myth | Sticking a spoon in the person's mouth while they're having a seizure will stop them from swallowing their tongue. |
| Fact | NO WAY! The tongue can't be swallowed during a seizure. Putting something in the person's mouth could break a tooth or injure their gums. It may also cause the tongue to block the air way if an object is inserted incorrectly. |
| Myth | People with epilepsy look different. |
| Fact | THAT'S JUST SILLY. People with epilepsy look just like everyone else. |
| Myth | People with epilepsy can have a seizure at any time. |
| Fact | THAT DEPENDS. Each individual is different - some people go for years without having a seizure; others have them frequently. |
| Myth | A seizure can be stopped by restraining the person. |
| Fact | BOGUS! Never restrain anyone during a seizure - you can hurt them. Move the person away from any sharp objects or hard surfaces. |
| Myth | Epilepsy means having convulsions. |
| Fact | THAT DEPENDS! Convulsive seizures are only one type of seizure. Seizures can also cause a short loss of consciousness, involuntary jerking movements, sudden spasms or sensory changes. |