Complications and Risks
Some health problems or symptoms happen more often in people with seizures than in people without seizures. We can help you understand the impact of these complications and risks.
What Are the Challenges of Living with Epilepsy?
People with epilepsy may experience health problems other than seizures. These problems could relate to the seizures, or they could be due to whatever is causing the epilepsy. For example, you may experience mood problems, changes related to seizure timing or side effects of medicines. Others may experience issues with sleeping, thinking and memory, or socializing with others. In rare instances, early death or SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) can occur.
Recognizing when any of these challenges happen can help you and your health care team figure out how to treat them.
Moods and Behavior
Studies have shown a link between epilepsy and mood disorders. This means epilepsy and its treatment may affect the way that you think and behave. It can also affect how people respond and behave toward you.
Learn how epilepsy can impact moods and behaviorEarly Death & SUDEP
Most people with epilepsy live a full and healthy life. In rare cases, unexpected death may occur in epilepsy patients.
Learn more about early death and SUDEPSeizure Emergencies
Some people may have seizures that are easy to control, while others may experience more serious seizures that can result in emergency situations.
Learn about the different types of seizure emergenciesSleep Issues
A good night’s sleep plays a key role in your overall well-being. Several studies confirmed that sleep issues and disorders are common in people with epilepsy. Poor sleep quality may also result in a higher frequency of seizures.
Learn about the connection between sleep and epilepsySocial Concerns
Coping with epilepsy is different for everyone. Concerns may arise for how seizures may affect your family life, relationships, school, work, or recreation.
Learn about social concerns related to epilepsyThinking & Memory
People with epilepsy commonly report having problems with their thinking and memory. These difficulties can hinder your functioning at work, in school, and at home.
Learn more about common memory problems linked to epilepsyCOVID-19 (Coronavirus)
Data suggests epilepsy does not increase the risk of getting COVID-19 or the severity of having COVID-19. However, some people with other health conditions related to epilepsy may have a higher risk of getting COVID-19. You can take certain precautions to reduce this risk.
Learn about the risks of COVID-19 and epilepsyBone Health
People with epilepsy are at higher risk for developing bone issues such as osteoporosis and fractures. Proper exercise and nutrition can help you decrease the risk of these issues.
Learn how epilepsy medication can affect bone healthWhat Else Can You Do If You Experience Complications From Epilepsy?
Research & Track Your Symptoms
- If you don’t know much about your family history, sit down with your family, and ask questions! A good family health history is important for everyone to have.
- If you notice other health problems or changes in your mood, thinking, or behavior, track the symptoms in your seizure diary. Note if the symptoms occur near a seizure or after you take medicine.
- Take a copy of your seizure diary and this information to all epilepsy visits.
Talk to Your Doctor
- Schedule an appointment to address how epilepsy impacts you and what your risks may be.
- Talk to your doctor about what you have noticed. They may recommend some testing or want to watch things for a while.
Connect With Others
Find local Epilepsy Foundation resources near you and learn more about the impact of epilepsy.
Related Resources
Seizure Medication List
In-depth information on epilepsy medications to help you choose the right one.
Epilepsy Device Wiki
Explore our searchable catalog of devices and apps developed for epilepsy.
Find a Clinical Trial
Find ongoing epilepsy clinical trials that you can consider.
Seizure Diary
Seizure Diaries help you record, track, and manage your seizures and epilepsy.
