Awfully Anxious

Anxiety is a normal feeling of fear or unease that usually passes as situations change. However, it becomes a problem when it interferes with daily life or prevents you from doing things you enjoy. Anxiety is more common among those with epilepsy — affecting around 1 in 4 individuals (with epilepsy). Some report having more anxiety around the time they have a seizure. Anxiety can occur in the hours or days leading up to a seizure, during a seizure, or just after a seizure. This is called peri-ictal anxiety. Some have a general fear of having another seizure. This type of anxiety is called anticipatory anxiety of epileptic seizures (AAS). More than half of those dealing with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) also suffer from AAS. Those who have been recently diagnosed with epilepsy are also more likely to have this type of anxiety. Fears around having a seizure are very common. You might feel anxious about doing things with other people or going to different places for fear of having a seizure. All of this leads to poor quality of life. According to researchers, there are four types of anxiety disorders linked to epilepsy — anticipatory anxiety of epileptic seizures , seizure phobia, epileptic social phobia, and epileptic panic disorder. Anxiety symptoms can sometimes be a big part of other conditions, such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Living with epilepsy can make everyday activities such as traveling, driving, living alone, or attending medical appointments feel stressful or triggering. Anxiety can both increase seizure risk and be worsened by seizures, creating a vicious cycle. Feeling very anxious or stressed can make a seizure more likely. Anxiety can cause you to lie awake at night, not getting adequate sleep, which can also trigger a seizure. (and make you grumpy).Additionally, AEDs may cause or worsen anxiety , so mood changes should be be reported to a doctor, especially if there is a family history of psychiatric disorders as your risk of mood side effects is increased. Several AEDs are known to cause or worsen anxiety. AEDs such as Topiramate, Phenobarbital, Fycompa, and Keppra are all linked to changes in anxiety. These drugs affect brain chemistry and can potentially cause anxiety in some patients to the point that neurologists cannot predict who will have negative effects and who will be helped. When changing medications, it is important to monitor mood changes. If you are feeling more anxious, let your doctor know. Managing anxiety with epilepsy requires support and patience. Distractions, exercise, fresh air, and a hobby, sport, or event you enjoy participating in can all help reduce stress! If anxiety becomes overwhelming, seeking professional help is essential for maintaining a healthy, productive life with epilepsy!