Navigating the complexities of the brain is no small feat, and when it comes to seizures, it can be frightening to think you have to go it alone. While seizures can be a difficult detour in your life’s journey, many successful treatment options are available. Whether you’ve experienced a single seizure or have epilepsy, seizure management can make all the difference. By working with a top-tier neurology team and making small changes to your daily routine, you can help manage your seizures with confidence.
Practical Ways to Manage Seizures
Managing seizures can be complex because there are many things to consider and remember. Seizure management is a comprehensive approach that can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you are first diagnosed with a seizure disorder. The key is simplifying challenges by creating a system of routines that will help you with the different facets of seizure management.
1. Taking Your Medications
Taking your medication as prescribed is a crucial component of effective seizure management. Missing doses can increase your chances of having another seizure, so developing a routine that is easy to stick to is critical to success.
One of the most accessible reminders is to set an alarm on your smartphone. Set alarms for the specific times you need your medication, and let your phone do the work. If you take several medications on different schedules, specific phone apps are designed for medication management. By inputting your medication and setting up the schedule, the app can send the proper reminders at the correct times so you can stay on track.
You can also set up phone reminders to refill your prescriptions, and some pharmacies have an automatic refill option. Knowing you won’t run out of these essential medications, whichever method you use will provide peace of mind.
2. Lifestyle, Diet and Exercise Choices
Your neurology team will likely make specific recommendations about managing your lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise. It is important to follow these guidelines and not hop from one fad to another. If your team’s plan doesn’t work for you, discuss changes to your routine with them before adjusting your seizure management strategy.
Some neurologists will recommend a specific meal plan, but if not, aim for a balanced diet and try not to skip meals. Physical activity is essential to all aspects of your life, including seizure management, cardiovascular function, and mental health. While it can be frightening to think of having a seizure during physical activity, you can minimize the risks by:
- Wearing a medical alert bracelet.
- Exercising with a friend or in a group setting.
- Avoiding high-risk activities and sports.
- Getting the all-clear from your neurology team before starting a new activity.
3. Improving Your Sleep
Sleep disorders are common in people with seizure disorders, and poor sleep can impact how well your seizures are controlled. Lack of sleep can also increase day-to-day fatigue and increase anxiety levels. Practicing good sleep habits—known as sleep hygiene—is important for your physical and mental well-being.
Start by setting a sleep schedule you can stick to. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time every morning. Instead of doing a relaxing activity in bed, such as reading, try doing it before you get into bed. This helps your body associate the bed with sleeping instead of other activities. Avoid caffeine, other stimulants and large meals close to bedtime. Doing so will help you enter a relaxed state more easily.
Work with the Seizure Management Experts
At Foothills Neurology, our skilled team of neurologists and providers is dedicated to your neurological care. We pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive and compassionate treatment for all seizure disorders. Living with a neurological condition can be daunting, and we’re here to guide you through your treatment journey. You can trust in our team’s expertise and dedication to your well-being. Take the first step toward effective seizure control by scheduling an appointment with Foothills Neurology today.