Epilepsy News From: Epilepsy is not a mental illness. In fact, the vast majority of people living with epilepsy have no cognitive or psychological problem. For the most part, psychological issues in epilepsy are limited to people with severe and uncontrolled epilepsy.

What is the life expectancy of a man with epilepsy?

Reduction in life expectancy can be up to 2 years for people with a diagnosis of idiopathic/cryptogenic epilepsy, and the reduction can be up to 10 years in people with symptomatic epilepsy. Reductions in life expectancy are highest at the time of diagnosis and diminish with time.

Is epilepsy covered by disability?

Medically Qualifying for Disability Benefits Due to Epilepsy Epilepsy is one of the conditions listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book, which means that if you meet the requirements in the Blue Book listing for epilepsy you may be able to get disability benefits.

Is epilepsy a developmental or intellectual disability?

A developmental disability is defined in state and federal law as intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism.

Does a child with epilepsy qualify for disability?

Do Children with Epilepsy Qualify for Social Security Disability Payments? Children with epilepsy can be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if their parents have low income or assets.

Does epilepsy worsen with age?

Epilepsy can develop at any age. Early childhood and older adulthood tend to be the most common life stages. The outlook tends to be better for people who develop epilepsy as children — there’s a chance they might outgrow it as they age.

What should epileptics avoid?

Seizure triggers

• Not taking epilepsy medicine as prescribed.
• Feeling tired and not sleeping well.
• Stress.
• Alcohol and recreational drugs.
• Flashing or flickering lights.
• Monthly periods.
• Missing meals.
• Having an illness which causes a high temperature.

  What happens if epilepsy is left untreated?

  If epilepsy is not treated, seizures may occur throughout a person’s life. Seizures can become more severe and happen more often over time. Epilepsy can be caused by tumors or improperly formed blood vessels.

  Can you get money for having epilepsy?

  The federal government offers financial assistance and health insurance to people with epilepsy who qualify. The two primary financial assistance programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

  What type of disability is seizure?

  If you suffer from seizures that impact your ability to work, you may be eligible to get Social Security disability.