What is Epilepsy? Know some effective strategies for managing THIS neurological disorder
By Richa Barua | First Published Dec 27, 2024, 12:49 PM ISTMillions worldwide suffer from epilepsy, which causes recurring seizures of varied severity. Here are several ways epilepsy patients may confidently handle daily life.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that impacts millions globally, leading to repeated seizures of varying types and intensity. Here are some of the key strategies to help those with epilepsy manage day-to-day living with confidence.
1. Understanding Your Condition
a) Seizure Types: Seizures can be as mild as absence (brief lapses in awareness) or tonic-clonic (convulsions).
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b) Triggers: these vary from person to person and often include: lack of sleep, stress, flickering lights and alcohol. Being aware of your triggers are very important in keeping those episodes at bay.
2. Develop a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
a) Medication Management: Be consistent with your anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) schedule and missing doses can lead to increased seizure activity. Inform your doctor if any medication side effects.
b) Explore Treatment Options: including the ketogenic diet (particularly in children), nerve stimulation therapies, or even surgery in some cases.
c) Regular Follow-Ups: Epilepsy symptoms and the effectiveness of medications can change over time. Go to check-ups often so you know if your treatment is still working, and you might need to variations.
3. Adopt a Lifestyle That Supports Your Health
a) Sleep: Sleep deprivation is a significant trigger for epilepsy. Try to get 7–9 hours of good sleep every night.
b) Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Indulge in moderation per your doctor’s orders. Both alcohol and too much caffeine interfere with sleep and can interact with epilepsy medication.
c) Exercise Safely: Physical activity can boost mood, lower stress, and improve overall health. Find a partner to make exercise extra safe.
4. Manage Stress Effectively
a) Mindfulness and Meditation
b) Time Management: Maintaining a balanced schedule with adequate downtime can prevent stress buildup.
5. Having a network of friends, family, or support groups
a) Raise Awareness: Educate your family, friends, and co-workers about your condition and what they can do for you if you have a seizure.
b) Find Support Groups: Reaching out to others going through something similar can be a great motivator and make recourse feel less isolating. It can be physically or virtually.
6. Take Safety Precautions
a) Home Modifications: To reduce injury during a seizure, consider adding padding to sharp edges, using plastic instead of glass, and avoiding high platforms.
b) Wearing a medical ID bracelet can inform others of your condition if you have a seizure in public.
c) Seizure Response Plan: Have a clear plan for what family members must do in case of a seizure.
7. Embrace Your Independence
a) Career and Education: While some jobs may not be suitable for people with epilepsy (e.g., piloting or heavy machinery operation), many career paths are fully accessible.
b) Travel and Adventures: Many individuals with epilepsy can travel safely. Pack extra medication, medical identification and important contact information.
c) Driving: Depending on the control of their seizures, some people with epilepsy are allowed to drive, but legislation varies from place to place. Find out from your physician if driving is safe for you.
8. Keep a Positive Outlook
By managing your condition effectively, you can enjoy hobbies, pursue your passions, and celebrate small victories along the way.
- Dr. Vamsi Chalasani, Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada
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