Epilepsy - Resources

Lifestyle Changes

The best preventive measure is to comply strictly with the drug regimen as prescribed. Seizures cannot be prevented by lifestyle changes alone, but people can make behavioral changes that improve their lives and give them a sense of control.

Avoiding Epileptic Triggers

In most cases, there is no known cause for epileptic seizures, but specific events or conditions may trigger them and should be avoided.

Inadequate or Fragmented Sleep. Inadequate or fragmented sleep can set off seizures in many people. Using sleep hygiene or other methods to improve sleep may be helpful.

Food Allergies. Food allergies may provoke seizures in children who also have migraine headaches, hyperactive behavior, or abdominal pains. Parents should consult an allergist if they suspect foods or additives might be playing a role in such cases.

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Alcohol and Smoking. Alcohol and smoking should be avoided, although light alcohol consumption does not appear to increase seizure activity in people who are not alcohol dependent or sensitive to alcohol.

Flashing Lights. Patients should avoid exposure to flashing or strobe lights. Video games have been known to trigger seizures in people with existing epilepsy, but apparently only if they are already sensitive to flashing lights. Seizures have been reported among people who watch cartoons with rapidly fluctuating colors and quick flashes. The frequency of flashes per second is measured in hertz (Hz). Screens that emit a lower hertz (such as 50 Hz) are more likely to cause seizures in people with epilepsy than a higher-hertz screen (such as 100 Hz or higher).

Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation methods include deep breathing, biofeedback, and meditation techniques. No strong evidence supports their value on reducing seizures (although some people benefit), but they may be helpful in reducing anxiety in some patients.

Exercise

Exercise is important for many aspects of epilepsy, although it can be problematic. Weight-bearing exercise helps maintain bone density, which can be reduced by many of the medications, particularly the older ones. Exercise can also help to prevent weight gain, which is a problem with some drugs. There have been some reports that exercise may trigger seizures in some patients, but this is uncommon. A number of studies have found no significant association between physical activity and a higher incidence of seizures in patients with epilepsy. Nevertheless, if patients are concerned they should discuss this issue with their doctors.

Some small studies have reported significant benefits from the practice of yoga, which employs weight bearing and balancing postures. Well-controlled studies are needed to confirm these benefits.