Epilepsy can be overwhelming, but with the right treatment and care plan, it’s possible to live a full and active life.
And even though it may be hard to cope with, being proactive in managing seizures is essential for those suffering from epilepsy.
In this article, you’ll find five of the most important health tips to help people with epilepsy.
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
Having a properly balanced diet is immensely important to everyone, but it’s especially pertinent for those with epilepsy.
There are certain food types that can cause seizures in some people, such as processed items, sugary treats, and alcohol. Thus, moderation or avoidance of these edibles is recommended.
2. Get Plenty of Sleep
Having enough sleep is critical for those with epilepsy, as deprivation of it can lead to a higher risk of seizures.
To ensure that one does not fall into this trap, the recommended amount of sleep for adults is 7-9 hours per day and more for children and teenagers.
3. Do Daily Aerobic Exercise
Physical activity is a great asset for those living with epilepsy. It can boost mood, build self-worth, and potentially reduce the number of seizures experienced.
Research has revealed that aerobic exercise such as jogging, swimming, or cycling yields especially positive effects in terms of seizure control.
4. Take Medications As Prescribed
When it comes to managing epilepsy, adhering to a prescribed medication plan is tremendously important. Such drugs may help impede seizures and balance out the condition.
Your doctor may use findings from a portable EEG device to help determine what medications you need, so it’s essential to heed your doctor’s guidance in order to effectively treat your epilepsy.
Not following instructions or ceasing medications too quickly could result in an increased probability of seizures occurring.
5. Learn First Aid and Safety Measures
Preparation for seizure emergencies is essential for your own safety and the safety of those around you. Necessary first aid and safety measures should be taken to ensure everyone’s well-being during a seizure.
These include the following:
- Creating space around the person having the seizure to prevent injury
- Placing them in a safe position on their side as they experience it
- Avoiding restraining them while going through it
- Timing the seizure’s duration and calling medical assistance if it lasts longer than usual
Apart from these precautionary steps, wearing a medical alert bracelet that indicates you have epilepsy can help emergency responders give the right treatment in case of an emergency.
What Are Some Recommended Aerobic Exercises for People With Epilepsy?
Exercising aerobically can be incredibly beneficial for people with epilepsy, and luckily there are many different activities they can try. Recommended aerobic exercises might include the following:
Yoga
Yoga is an exercise form that has both physical and mental health benefits. It can help to decrease stress levels, as well as enhance flexibility, coordination, and balance. This makes it particularly useful for folks who are living with epilepsy.
Pilates
For those with epilepsy, Pilates can be a great option to include in their exercise routine. Focusing on core strength, balance, and flexibility, it offers the opportunity to increase overall fitness without placing excessive strain on the body.
Walking
One of the most convenient and straightforward ways to incorporate physical exercise into your daily routine is by going for a walk.
Cycling
Another form of aerobic exercise that may be beneficial for those with epilepsy is biking. This activity can provide advantages such as improved cardiovascular fitness, enhanced endurance, and increased muscular strength in the lower body.
Swimming
Swimming can be a great form of exercise for those with joint pain or mobility limitations, such as those with epilepsy.
Unlike other forms of physical activity, it is low-impact and can provide a comfortable and enjoyable way to remain active.
Why Is Hydration Important for People With Epilepsy?
Maintaining proper hydration is essential for all individuals, but it’s especially critical for those with epilepsy.
Here are some of the reasons why it’s so vital for people living with this condition:
Dehydration Reduces Attention Span and Impairs Motor Skills
When someone with epilepsy is dehydrated, they may experience a range of cognitive and motor impairments that can be dangerous.
These deficits could lead to falls and other accidents, which in turn can cause seizures to occur. As such, it is important for people with epilepsy to maintain proper hydration levels.
Hydration Helps You Avoid Seizures
Not only does it reduce stress levels and improve mood, but by remaining hydrated, it could also lower the number of seizures experienced.
It is vital to drink fluids before, during, and after exercising to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances which may trigger fits.
Hydration Restores Electrolytes and Energy
Those who have experienced a seizure can tell you how tiring it is on the body and mind. Subsequently, they usually end up dehydrated as well.
Therefore, once they have become lucid and aware again, providing them with fluids, such as water or other hydrating drinks, is essential in order to restore lost electrolytes and hydrate their body once more.
Conclusion
Though it may not be easy, those with epilepsy can still live fulfilling lives by taking the necessary steps toward self-care and medical management.
A healthy lifestyle involving a nutritious diet, ample sleep, regular physical activity, and knowledge of first aid are all measures that can help to minimize the chance of seizures.
About The Author:
Stacey Smith is a freelance health writer. She is passionate to write about women’s health, dental health, diabetes, endocrinology, and nutrition and provides in-depth features on the latest in health news for medical clinics and health magazines.
