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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have had Epilepsy since I was about 10 or 11 (am now 67). I have heard of Epilepsy related to other med conditions? Is there a list?

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bastrop, LA

On 2/13/2026 I had back-to-back seizures that threw me into Afib. That's scary. What else can Epilepsy cause?

March 4
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Reactions
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member how are you?

March 13
MyEpilepsyTeam

What conditions are related to epilepsy, and what complications can it cause?

That experience with atrial fibrillation after back-to-back seizures sounds frightening. You're asking an important question about understanding the full picture of epilepsy-related conditions.

Epilepsy can occur alongside several other conditions Show Full Answer

What conditions are related to epilepsy, and what complications can it cause?

That experience with atrial fibrillation after back-to-back seizures sounds frightening. You're asking an important question about understanding the full picture of epilepsy-related conditions.

Epilepsy can occur alongside several other conditions, called comorbidities. Here are the main categories:

Neurological conditions:
* Migraine and headaches (very common with epilepsy)
* Alzheimer's disease (10-22% of people with Alzheimer's experience seizures)
* Stroke (the most common cause of seizures in people over 60)

Mental health and cognitive conditions:
* Depression (one of the most common comorbidities)
* Anxiety and seizure worry
* ADHD (especially in children with epilepsy)
* Autism
* Psychosis

Autoimmune conditions:
* Type 1 diabetes (people with type 1 diabetes are nearly 3 times more likely to have epilepsy)
* Thyroid disorders
* Multiple sclerosis
* Lupus (nearly 6 times higher risk of epilepsy)
* Myasthenia gravis (rare)

Other medical conditions:
* Cardiovascular issues like arrhythmias (which you experienced), coronary heart disease, and heart attacks affect 60-80% of people with epilepsy
* Sleep apnea (affects about 30% of people with epilepsy)
* Chronic pain
* Musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and respiratory disorders

It's important to keep your healthcare team informed about all your conditions and medications, as some treatments can interact.

March 4
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
I’m okay now but earlier I was around someone where I was working my hardest and they decide to say a mean comment at me. Why do I try? I pray you had good day.

March 13 (edited)
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Epilepsy can definitely relate to depression and hopelessness. Epilepsy has even given me thoughts of suicide. I’ve had epilepsy nonstop since I was 10 years old too

March 4 (edited)
Hi, this is just a check-in, based on a phrase you mentioned. If you — or anyone else who sees this — is thinking about self-harm, we want to say that you are an important part of this community. No part of this is easy, but there is support that can help. Read more >

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