Can I ride my bicycle? Can I go swimming?

Most kids with epilepsy can ride their bicycles. Just be sure that you always wear a bike helmet and stay away from dangerous places. You can also do lots of other sports. You just need to be a little more careful than other kids. Some people think that kids with epilepsy shouldn't go swimming because they might have a seizure in the water and drown. But if you don't have too many seizures it should be OK for you to go swimming in a pool if an adult is watching closely. All kids need to be watched in certain activities! If your parents are worried that something you want to do is too dangerous, ask them to talk to your doctor about it. Don't do it if they tell you not to.

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06