“In a couple of days, I’ll feel the adrenaline rush of roller coasters!” a MyEpilepsyTeam member wrote. “Nothing like roller coasters to de-stress!” While a few members have posted about enjoying amusement park rides, others have asked, “You’re allowed to ride a rollercoaster while being epileptic?”

So, can people with epilepsy ride roller coasters? There’s no universal answer. Many people with epilepsy are able to enjoy certain rides, depending on the specifics of their medical condition. However, only your neurologist can evaluate your situation to make that call.

Ultimately, theme park rides come with risks for everyone. Here’s what experts typically recommend and what to consider before visiting your next theme park.

🗳️ Do roller coasters or other amusement park rides trigger your seizures?

Yes

No

Thanks! You've successfully submitted your vote.

Sign up to view the results!

Continue with Facebook

Continue with Google

Continue with Email

By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.

Already a member? Log In

Consider Your Epilepsy Triggers

Some people with epilepsy are more likely to have seizures at certain times of the day or in response to specific triggers, like bright lights. Possible triggers vary from person to person and may include:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Dehydration
• Recreational drug use
• Hormonal changes
• Lack of sleep
• Missed seizure medicines
• Sickness
• Stress

“My triggers are flashing lights, overexertion (which doesn’t take much), overheating, and high levels of stress mixed with lack of sleep,” shared a MyEpilepsyTeam member.

If you know what triggers your seizures, you may have a better shot at preventing them. “I try not to look at any flashing lights or bright lights. I avoid any sudden jerking or fast-moving things,” explained one member.

For people with photosensitive epilepsy, seizures may be triggered by flashing lights or contrasting light and dark patterns. If this applies to you, try to avoid known flashing-light or pattern triggers, follow your medical advice, and check park ride warnings before getting in line.

Special glasses may help reduce the effect of some visual triggers, but they don’t stop photosensitivity or guarantee protection. Some people use epilepsy glasses as part of a broader plan.

Plan Your Theme Park Visit

If you’re visiting an amusement park, there are some steps you can take to help reduce seizure risk during the trip. For example, if heat is a seizure trigger for you, try to plan your outings during cooler weather or schedule time for some indoor activities in air conditioning.

Research the park rides ahead of time and see if the facility posts warnings about seizure risk. Locate any medical facilities at the park when you arrive, so you know where to go in an emergency.

Be prepared with a medical alert bracelet, prescribed rescue medication if it’s included in your seizure action plan, and updated paperwork that explains your or your child’s condition. A seizure action plan can include seizure first aid, rescue medication instructions, and when to call for emergency help.

MyEpilepsyTeam members have shared how these simple steps have made a difference for them. “I have worn medical bracelets since 1991,” said one member. “It saved my life when I had my first tonic-clonic seizure a year later. The medication I was taking and the medication the hospital was going to use would have interacted badly.”

While at the park, set reminders on your phone to eat, drink water, and take medications. This can help you stay on track with consistent habits.

Take breaks regularly during the day. If you typically experience an aura before a seizure comes, make sure you alert someone if you notice the signs. Remain in a safe place.

If you can’t attend an amusement park with your child who has epilepsy, make sure others understand their condition and will be available to help monitor and ensure your child’s safety during the trip.

Discuss Safety With Your Child

Parents of children with epilepsy may feel like they’re caught between a rock and a hard place if their child is going to an amusement park.

“My 14-year-old daughter was recently diagnosed with generalized seizures. She loves roller coasters, and we visit Disneyland every year,” said a MyEpilepsyTeam member. “Should we avoid roller coasters? She will not be happy.”

Another member responded, “I have absence and grand mal seizures. I live near Six Flags. I love roller coasters. A couple of years ago, I went to Mexico with my family, and we went upside-down zip-lining. If she is feeling fine and wants to do it, then let her. You can’t always play it safe and shelter her. Make sure she drinks lots of water and gets a lot of sleep while at Disney because it can be hot and make her tired easily.”

Safety should always be your top priority, and sometimes that means saying no. A child’s safety on a ride depends on more than how they feel that day. Consider their seizure type and frequency, seizure control, medication side effects, the specific ride’s hazards, whether they can follow instructions, and whether trained supervision is available.

However, having an open discussion with your child about theme parks can keep them involved and empowered. Review the risks with your child and their healthcare provider, and avoid unnecessary restrictions.

If certain rides are not recommended, teach your child to take ownership over their condition with messages like “I’m choosing not to go on this ride because I want to stay safe,” rather than “I can’t go on this ride because I have epilepsy.” While you can’t change your child’s medical condition, you can teach them how to keep a positive perspective.