Affecting over 50 million people globally, it is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Yet, myths about its causes, symptoms, and management continue to circulate, impacting the lives of those living with the condition. India accounts for nearly one-fifth of the global burden of epilepsy, a significant share that cannot be overlooked. It is not surprising that we now have a better understanding of what causes epileptic seizures, thanks to advancements in science and technology. Nor is it surprising that, while epilepsy may not always be curable, it is largely manageable with appropriate medical care. What is concerning, however, is that even today, many across both rural and educated urban populations, do not recognize epilepsy as a medical condition. Deep-rooted myths persist, with some still attributing seizures to possession by evil spirits. In many parts of India, families may seek help from traditional healers before consulting a neurologist. This highlights the urgent need to dispel misinformation and raise awareness about epilepsy as a treatable neurological disorder.

Myth 1: Epilepsy is a Mental Illness

Fact: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, not a psychiatric one. While seizures may temporarily affect a person’s behavior or consciousness, the root cause is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is not linked to mental instability or psychosis.

Myth 2: Epilepsy is Rare

Fact: Far from rare, epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological condition globally. It affects people of all ages, though onset is most common in early childhood or after age 60.

Myth 3: All Seizures Involve Convulsions

Fact: Seizures vary greatly. Some may involve full-body convulsions (tonic-clonic), while others present as brief staring spells, blinking, unusual movements, or emotional changes. Over 40 seizure types exist, and not all involve loss of consciousness.

Myth 4: You Should Restrain Someone Having a Seizure

Fact: Restraining can lead to injury. The best response is to ensure the person’s safety by removing sharp objects, placing something soft under their head, and turning them on their side.

Myth 5: Epilepsy is Contagious

Fact: Epilepsy is not contagious. It cannot be transmitted by touch, proximity, or shared spaces. This false belief fuels unnecessary social exclusion.

Myth 6: People with Epilepsy Can’t Lead Normal Lives

Fact: Most individuals with epilepsy live full, productive lives. With proper treatment, up to 70% of people with epilepsy can achieve seizure control. Many excel in academics, careers, sports, and personal relationships.

Myth 7: Epilepsy Always Runs in Families

Fact: While genetics can play a role, many cases arise due to head injuries, infections, strokes, brain tumors, or unknown causes. Inherited epilepsy syndromes account for a minority of cases.

Myth 8: Women with Epilepsy Shouldn’t Get Pregnant

Fact: Women with epilepsy can and do have healthy pregnancies. With appropriate preconception counseling and seizure management, risks to the mother and baby can be minimized. Collaboration between neurologists and obstetricians is can help a mother having joyful motherhood.

Myth 9: A Seizure Means a Person Has Epilepsy

Fact: Not all seizures are epileptic. Seizures can result from high fever (febrile seizures), low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalance, alcohol withdrawal, or head trauma. A diagnosis of epilepsy requires at least two unprovoked seizures occurring more than 24 hours apart.

Myth 10: You Should Put Something in the Mouth of a Person Having a Seizure

Fact: This outdated advice can be dangerous. Do not insert anything into the person’s mouth. It can cause choking or dental injury. Let the seizure pass naturally while ensuring safety.

Myth 11: A person can swallow their tongue during a seizure

Fact: It is physically impossible to swallow your tongue. This widespread myth can lead to harmful attempts to “protect” the tongue. The correct first aid response is to roll the person onto their side and ensure their airway is clear, never insert anything into their mouth which might lead to injury.

Additional Misconceptions That Need disproving:

• “Epilepsy affects intelligence.”

Epilepsy does not inherently impair intellectual ability. Some individuals may experience temporary confusion post-seizure, or cognitive side effects from medication, but most lead intellectually active lives.

• “People with epilepsy must avoid flashing lights.”

Only 3–5% of individuals have photosensitive epilepsy. The majority can watch TV, use screens, and go about their daily lives without issues.

• “Children with epilepsy need special schools.”

Most children with epilepsy thrive in regular educational environments. Inclusive learning, informed teachers, and supportive peers help them integrate seamlessly.

• “Marriage and parenthood are off-limits.”

Epilepsy doesn’t prevent marriage or raising children. With informed care, people with epilepsy enjoy fulfilling personal lives. However, women on anti-seizure medications should consult their doctor before conception.

• “Smelling a shoe helps stop seizures.”

This is a cultural myth with no medical basis. The seizure usually ends on its own, and such practices can delay or distract from appropriate care.

Epilepsy continues to face a wide treatment gap, with many patients discontinuing therapy due to persistent myths, misconceptions, and superstitions. Community awareness remains low regarding the fact that epilepsy can often be effectively managed with accurate diagnosis and consistent treatment. People living with epilepsy deserve empathy, respect, and informed support. By raising awareness and challenging long-standing misconceptions, we can work towards reducing stigma and creating a more inclusive and understanding support-system for those affected by the condition.