Do’s N Don’ts

Living with epilepsy requires proper management and a conscious effort to put safety first. Knowing what to do—and what to avoid—can help reduce the risk of seizures and improve your quality of life. Many times, over-the-counter (OTC) medications may seem harmless, but it’s important to consult your neurologist before taking anything new. Some medications can affect your epilepsy or interact negatively with your current prescriptions. One medication all epilepsy patients should avoid is Benadryl. This is a first-generation antihistamine that crosses the blood-brain barrier, lowers the seizure threshold, and can potentially cause seizures. Alcohol should also be consumed with caution. Drinking large amounts may lower the seizure threshold and interfere with medications, both of which can trigger seizures. Similarly, caffeine should be consumed in moderation to avoid overstimulating the brain. Understanding and identifying your triggers—such as flashing lights, lack of sleep, heat, illness, etc—is key to preventing unwanted seizures. It can take time, trial and error (and lots of tears) to discover all your unique triggers, but once you do, your journey with epilepsy becomes much safer. Having rescue medications accessible at all times is essential for safety and well-being. Since seizures can occur without warning, never swim or bathe alone. Even something as simple as a cold can trigger a seizure. Practicing good hygiene—like frequent handwashing and using hand sanitizer—can help prevent this.Don’t be afraid to go the extra mile for your health—it makes a difference. Finding good insurance is crucial when managing epilepsy, especially if you’re consistently paying for expensive medications. Organizations like Epilepsy Alliance offer support and assistance, including help with insurance. Giving a trusted loved one Power of Attorney (POA) is also essential in case you’re ever unable to make medical decisions. This person should be familiar with your medical history and capable of making informed decisions on your behalf. Always bring someone with you to your doctor’s appointments. A second set of ears can help ensure that nothing is missed or misunderstood. This person should be attentive and aware of what’s being discussed. Finally—and most importantly—get educated! Don’t stay in the dark. Ask questions. One thing I never did until advised by my neurologist was to request my medical records. Always request your records. You have a legal right to them—they cannot be withheld. Once I received mine, I discovered I had experienced multiple strokes, both during and after brain surgery—information my previous epileptologist never told me. Getting informed changed everything for me. It can for you, too. Get informed. Get your records. Stay safe.  And together, let’s beat epilepsy.