Partial Seizures: Staying Healthy

With a little bit of planning, most people with partial seizures are able to lead active, fulfilling lives. You can, too. Follow these suggestions to stay as healthy as possible and head off seizures before they happen.

Get Regular, Moderate Exercise

Walking and biking are great ways to stay active. Make it safer and more fun by asking a friend to join you. Avoid swimming until seizures are under control. Then, never swim alone.

Find Ways to Deal with Stress

You may have stressors in your everyday life. You may also be feeling some stress from dealing with seizures. But feeling too much stress may trigger seizures. Try some of these ideas to reduce stress:

• Consider switching jobs.

• Get more help around the house.

• Look at having seizures as a chance to review your life's goals.

• Lower your expectations and focus your energy on staying well.

• Talk to family and friends about your concerns.

• Ask your doctor about support groups for people dealing with seizures.

• Ask your doctor or nurse to show you relaxation methods such as deep breathing and visualization.

• Spend time on a hobby you enjoy.

Avoid Brain-Altering Substances

Many chemicals can cause seizures. Even small amounts of alcohol can trigger seizures. Many illegal drugs also cause severe seizures, even in people who do not normally have them.

Listen to Your Body

You can sometimes limit seizures by staying in touch with what your body is telling you.

• Identify events that may trigger your seizures. For instance, flickering lights from the TV, computer screen, or fluorescent lights trigger seizures in some people.

• Look for patterns that occur before a seizure happens. Some people notice certain sounds, smells, or sights that aren’t really there (called an aura) just before a seizure.

• Keep your body from becoming overtired. Get enough sleep every night.