What are the Do’s & Don’ts if Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain and causes recurrent seizures. It is important to follow certain guidelines in order to manage epilepsy effectively and reduce the risk of seizures. Here are some do’s and don’ts for people with epilepsy:

DO:

1. Take medications as prescribed: It is important to take epilepsy medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This will help to control seizures and prevent them from occurring.
2. Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for overall health and can help to prevent seizures. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
3. Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help to manage epilepsy and reduce the risk of seizures. This includes eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
4. Exercise regularly: Exercise can help to reduce stress and improve overall health. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
5. Wear a medical alert bracelet: A medical alert bracelet can help others know that you have epilepsy and what to do in case of a seizure.
6. Avoid triggers: Some people with epilepsy may have triggers that can increase their risk of seizures. These may include lack of sleep, alcohol, and certain medications. It is important to identify and avoid these triggers as much as possible.
7. Have a seizure plan: It is important to have a plan in place for what to do in case of a seizure. This may include informing others of your condition and how to help during a seizure, keeping rescue medication on hand, and avoiding dangerous situations.
8. Seek support: Epilepsy can be a challenging condition to manage, and it is important to have a support system in place. This may include family, friends, or a support group.

DON’T:

1. Don’t skip medications: It is important to take medications exactly as prescribed in order to control seizures. Skipping medications can increase the risk of seizures.
2. Don’t drink alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of seizures and should be avoided by people with epilepsy.
3. Don’t drive if you are not cleared to do so: Some states have laws prohibiting people with epilepsy from driving. It is important to follow these laws and to only drive if your doctor has cleared you to do so.
4. Don’t engage in dangerous activities: It is important to avoid activities that may be dangerous if you have a seizure, such as swimming alone or using power tools.
5. Don’t ignore warning signs: Some people may experience warning signs before a seizure, such as an aura or feeling dizzy. It is important to pay attention to these signs and take appropriate precautions.
6. Don’t be afraid to seek help: Epilepsy can be a challenging condition to manage, and it is important to seek help if you are struggling. This may include talking to your doctor, a counselor, or joining a support group.

In summary, it is important for people with epilepsy to take medications as prescribed, get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, wear a medical alert bracelet, avoid triggers, have a seizure plan, and seek support. It is also important to avoid skipping medications, drinking alcohol, driving if not cleared to do so, engaging in dangerous activities, ignoring warning signs, and being afraid to seek help. By following these guidelines, people with epilepsy can effectively manage their condition and reduce the risk of seizures.