Epilepsy FAQ

What is the difference between a seizure and epilepsy?

A seizure is a single event in which a person experiences changes in muscle tone, sensation, and awareness. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes at least two and often frequent seizures.

Is epilepsy a disability?

Epilepsy may be classed as a disability depending on the type of seizures you experience and their frequency. Adults with epilepsy can be evaluated to see if they qualify for disability benefits.

Is epilepsy hereditary?

Epilepsy may be inherited. Some types are more likely to run in families than others, such as photosensitive epilepsy, childhood absence epilepsy, and focal seizures.

How many people have epilepsy?

Around 3.4 million people throughout the United States suffer from epilepsy.

Is there a cure for epilepsy?

Surgical and non-surgical treatments can help you effectively manage or eliminate seizures. Epilepsy surgery is seen as the best treatment for stopping seizures in about 60% of cases, although medications can also help manage the frequency, intensity, and duration of seizures. Children may naturally outgrow epilepsy as they age and develop.

Can you grow out of epilepsy?

It is possible to grow out of epilepsy. Around 70% of children diagnosed with epilepsy grow out of this condition before the age of 20.

Can you drive if you suffer from epilepsy?

In Florida, a patient with epilepsy must be seizure free for two years or seizure free for one year with the recommendation of their doctor to attain a driver's license. It is legal to drive with epilepsy in all states of America, though each state has its own regulations. Because of the unpredictable nature of epileptic seizures, you should discuss driving with your doctor first.