Self-Care for Epilepsy

You can do many things to help control your seizures. First, follow your treatment plan. So, if your doctor has prescribed medications, be sure to take them as directed. Also, take the following steps.

Track and Avoid Triggers

Triggers are things that seem to provoke seizures. Keep track of your triggers and try to avoid them. Here are two common triggers and ways to cope with them:

• Too little sleep. Be sure to get enough sleep. If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor.

• Alcohol and drugs. Ask your doctor how much alcohol is safe for you. Never take any illegal drugs.

Keep a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can help you feel good and cope better with epilepsy.

• Exercise often. Frequent exercise can help keep you healthy. Try to exercise for 30 minutes most days of the week. Yoga is a good option.

• Eat well.Good nutrition can give you energy and make you feel better. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. And cut back on excess fat and sugar.

• Control stress.Keeping stress levels low can help you cope better with epilepsy. To manage stress, try an exercise program.

• Manage illness.Get proper treatment when you’re sick. And if you’ve been prescribed AEDs, be sure to take them even when you’re ill.