Myths and Facts About Epilepsy

Seizures caused by flashing lights is known as photosensitive epilepsy and only affects about 3 percent of the total number of patients. Even then, some with this form of epilepsy doesn't go into a fit the moment they are exposed to flashing lights. There are certain co-triggers which may result in photosensitive epileptic fits such as alcohol, disturbed sleep and stress.

This is one of the most known myths floating around about epileptic seizures. This is physically impossible and you can't swallow your tongue while having an episode. Many people try to insert spoon or other foreign objects into the mouth to facilitate breathing but this can cause more problems and even injury. Trying to insert foreign objects into your mouth will result in chipped teeth, laceration of the roof of the mouth or even dislocation of the jaw.

While epileptic people can go out for a night of fun, they should be careful to not drink too much. Studies have shown that epileptic seizures have a high tendency to occur during the hangover period. This is due to multiple factors such as disturbed sleep, lessened effectiveness of epilepsy medications; all of which can be caused by alcohol consumption. So be careful about what and how much alcohol you consume, depending on the medication you take before going on a night out of fun.

This is another myth which has mostly been propagated in popular culture. Not all epileptic patients suffer from forms of violent convulsions. There are many forms of seizures which have varying degrees and symptoms and some of them may be very hard to detect at all. It's best to read up on material to consult a doctor on what type of seizure you or your loved one may have.