Living with epilepsy and leading a relatively normal life is not impossible.
Thanks to modern medicine and alternative therapies, today nearly 80% of epilepsy patients can go for months or years in between seizures. Nonetheless, coping with epilepsy does take its toll on the patient and his friends and family. Children suffering from epilepsy may develop emotional and behavioral problems caused by isolation and embarrassment caused by their symptoms. People suffering from epilepsy also tend to develop personality issues such as depression and low self-esteem. Counseling services and support groups can help families cope with epilepsy positively and are worth looking in to.
Epileptics also face problems regarding driving and recreational choices. For example certain states do not issue a driving license to people who suffer from epilepsy unless they can prove that they have been seizure free for a particular amount of time. Activities such as swimming, sailing and other sports can only be done under supervision. One of the biggest concerns regarding epilepsy is pregnancy. Seizure medication may reduce fertility or increase the chance of birth defects in babies. There is also a risk of the baby inheriting the condition in such cases. Women should consult with their doctor before getting pregnant to discuss alternative medication options and the risks involved.