Common Myths

Some myths regarding seizures still persist today and are centuries old. The most common myths about seizures include:

1. One can swallow their tongue during a seizure; it is physically not possible to swallow your tongue.
2. You should force something into the mouth of an individual having a seizure; this can actually cause injury. Do not put anything in a person’s mouth when he or she is having a seizure.
3. You should restrain an individual having a seizure; do not restrain an individual during a seizure. The seizure will run its course, most of the time in just a few seconds. Prolonged seizures may need to be managed using emergency medication if prolonged.
4. If you have a seizure, you have epilepsy; not all seizures are due to epilepsy.
5. Epilepsy and seizures are caused by evil spirits; epilepsy is a neurological condition with an organic cause
6. Epilepsy is contagious; it is a neurological condition that cannot be spread through contact.
7. People with epilepsy or seizures cannot handle highly demanding jobs. Individuals with epilepsy can also handle demanding jobs and take on positions of responsibility. One may be advised to avoid driving, handling heavy machinery, cooking next to an open fire, or participating in gymnastics that involve the use of highly positioned bars.