Epilepsy and Employment

By:  Dr. David M. Ficker, Director of the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, Cincinnati Epilepsy Center

The question of whether someone with epilepsy can work is a challenging decision. One has to balance the risk of a seizure while working and the independence that come with working. Many people with epilepsy are able to work despite having seizures. There are certain jobs that cannot be done if one has a history of epilepsy. These include an airline pilot and a commercial truck driver. These jobs are strictly regulated by the federal government and people with a history of seizures need to meet certain requirements to be certified in these positions. The level of seizure control affects the type of job someone with epilepsy can have. If seizures are well controlled, then almost all jobs can be performed. If seizures are not controlled, then one should avoid jobs that are potentially dangerous (like driving a vehicle, working at heights or with dangerous equipment).

The biggest issue facing people with epilepsy is whether to disclose epilepsy to your employer or future employer. Regulations prohibit an employer from asking health-related questions until after a position is offered. This is a very complicated issue without a clear cut answer. The Epilepsy Foundation reviews the pros and cons of disclosure on their website (see: www.epilepsyfoundation.org/living/wellness/employment/livingjobs.cfm). The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Cincinnati has a new program called The Skills Training Employment Program (STEP) that is designed to teach skills that are important in the workplace. You can find out more about this program by contacting them at 513-721-2905.