Is Epilepsy contagious?

Epilepsy is not a communicable disease, and cannot spread by coming into close contact with a person with epilepsy.

Will my child become ‘dependent’ on his/her medications?

Children with epilepsy will need to continue treatment until they outgrow the disorder. The medicines are not addictive, and do not make the child weak. When they have outgrown their seizures for longer than two years, the medicines can usually be gradually stopped with little risk of having further seizures, i.e. they do not become ‘dependent’ on the medicines.

Can Epilepsy be caused by evil spirits?

Although this seems to be a popular belief amongst Malaysians, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

The practice of seeing spiritual healers or ‘bomohs’ may result in delays in effective therapy for children with epilepsy.

Are ‘brain tonics’ helpful for children with epilepsy?

There are many natural, herbal or traditional products and remedies reputed to have ‘brain tonic’ or curative properties for children with brain disorders.

Please consult your local doctor before giving these products to your children, as some products may interfere with your children’s medications.