Living With Epilepsy: Tips For Managing Seizures

Dr. Santosh Prabhu January 17, 2025

According to the World Health Organization, epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions, affecting around 50 million people globally. It is marked by recurrent seizures, also known as epileptic attacks, which involve sudden, involuntary movements that can impact either a specific part or the entire body. These seizures are sometimes accompanied by a loss of consciousness and a lack of control over bowel or bladder functions. In this article, we will explore epilepsy, its causes and symptoms, and most importantly, discuss measures for managing seizures.

Understanding Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder where nerve cells in the brain fail to communicate properly. This leads to abnormal electrical signals produced by damaged brain cells, which in turn cause seizures. Seizures can manifest as changes in awareness, muscle control (such as twitching or jerking), as well as alterations in sensations, emotions, and behavior. It's important to note that the symptoms of seizures can vary significantly from person to person. For epilepsy patients, having a single seizure does not necessarily mean they have epilepsy. A diagnosis of epilepsy is made when a person experiences at least two unprovoked seizures, separated by a time duration of 24 hours or more. Effective epilepsy management involves both medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments to control the frequency and intensity of seizures.

Tips For Managing Seizures

Epilepsy can make everyday simple tasks, such as crossing the street or cooking dinner, dangerous, as seizures or an epileptic attack can strike at any moment.

Although epilepsy cannot be completely prevented, approximately 25% of epilepsy attack cases may be avoidable through effective measures that help reduce the risk of seizures.

Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Wear a helmet during sports or activities that may cause head injuries.
Ensure adequate sleep, as lack of rest can trigger seizures.
Take precautions to stay clear of colds and the flu.
Consult with a doctor to ensure prescribed medications don’t worsen seizures.
Avoid epilepsy triggers such as bright flashing lights and loud sounds that may induce an epileptic attack.
Always follow the prescribed epilepsy medication regimen.
Manage stress through healthy coping strategies.
Stay active, exercise regularly, and stay hydrated to support overall health and reduce depression.
Consume a healthy diet.

Steps To Keep A Person Safe During A Seizure

Seizures can occur unexpectedly, but following these steps can ensure safety of the individual and effective epilepsy management.

Stay calm and reassure others around you.
Stay with the epilepsy patient throughout the seizure.
Remove any objects nearby that could cause injury.
If the person is lying down, turn them gently on their side to keep their airway clear.
Time the seizure to monitor its duration; if it lasts more than 5 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
After the seizure, help them sit in a safe position to recover.
Once alert, comfort them and explain what happened.

What Causes Epilepsy?

When it comes to answering the question of what causes epilepsy, it’s important to note that in most cases, the cause of seizures remains unknown. However, some known factors include:

Genetics: Some types of epilepsy are more likely to run in families. While specific genes may increase the risk, other factors are often involved, making it a complex condition for epilepsy patients.
Mesial Temporal Sclerosis: Scarring in the inner part of the temporal lobe (situated behind the ears) can lead to focal seizures in epilepsy patients.
Head Injuries: Trauma from accidents, falls, or blows to the head can trigger seizures in those prone to epilepsy.

Other causes include:

Brain Infections: Infections like brain abscesses, meningitis, encephalitis, and neurocysticercosis are known to cause epilepsy.
Immune Disorders: Autoimmune conditions that attack brain cells can lead to seizures in epilepsy patients.
Developmental Disorders: Birth defects affecting the brain are a common cause of epilepsy, particularly in cases where seizures are not controlled by medication.

Understanding The Types Of Seizures

Focal Onset Seizures: Begin in one area of the brain, affecting one side.
Generalized Onset Seizures: Involve both sides of the brain simultaneously.

Both types are common in epilepsy patients and vary in severity and impact.

Symptoms Of Seizures

Seizure symptoms can differ based on the type of epileptic attack and the brain areas affected. Since epilepsy results from abnormal brain activity, seizures can interfere with various brain functions. Common symptoms include:

Temporary confusion
Blank look or staring into space
Muscle stiffness
Uncontrolled jerking movements in the arms and legs
Loss of consciousness
Psychological symptoms such as fear or anxiety

The Final Takeaway

Epilepsy is a chronic condition that can affect quality of life, with recurring epileptic attacks or seizures being physically and emotionally challenging. While epilepsy may persist for some individuals, others may experience a reduction or cessation of seizures with proper treatment. Effective management includes getting enough rest, limiting alcohol, eating a healthy diet, avoiding triggers, and following medication instructions as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

FAQs

Can epilepsy be cured permanently?

While epilepsy cannot be permanently cured, there are various treatment options available. With proper medication, up to 70% of people with epilepsy can manage the condition effectively.

What are the complications of epilepsy?

Complications of epilepsy may include learning difficulties in children, injuries from falls, and permanent brain damage, such as strokes or other types of brain injury in adults.