How to Live with Epilepsy

Seizures are frightening, and managing them can be one of the most difficult challenges you will ever face. Depending on the type, a seizure can result in serious bodily injury, if the patient strikes his head or suffers other trauma during the event. To best cope with seizures, create a safe environment and maintain a positive attitude.

Instructions

• 1

  Wear a Medic-Alert bracelet if you have seizures. If you have a seizure and are rendered unconscious, medics will know the kind of treatment to administer, as soon as they read your bracelet.

• 2

  Take your anti-convulsant medication as ordered. Don't skip a dose and do not stop taking your medicine abruptly.

• 3

  Use plastic glasses and dishes rather than glass and china, if your seizures are uncontrolled.

• 4

  Hang an "occupied" sign on the bathroom door, rather than locking it, so that if you have a seizure, you are easy to access.

• 5

  Use "Dial-A-Ride" services, rather than attempting to drive, if your seizures are not controlled.

• 6

  Place a monitor in your child's bedroom, if he has seizures.

• 7

  Ask your child to always sleep in the lower bunk, whenever he sleeps overnight at a friend's house, if he is epileptic.

• 8

  Hang first-aid instructions and emergency phone numbers on the front of your refrigerator, in case of a seizure.

• 9

  Swim with a "buddy." Never swim alone.

• 10

  Add extra padding under carpets and rugs.

• 11

  Keep water levels in the bathtub low, incase of seizure, to avoid drowning.

• 12

  Stay away from cigarette, pipe or cigar smoking, to avoid fire hazards.

• 13

  Find a competent, caring neurologist that you have faith and trust in, and follow his treatment instructions. Never feel "funny" about calling him with your questions. If the doctor is too busy, his nurse will help you. That's what your doctor is there for -- to help you.

• 14

  Check with your doctor before taking any new medications. For example, if you develop an allergy, don't load up on antihistamines without first okaying it with your physician, especially if you haven't taken antihistamines before.

• 15

  Become educated. Read everything you can about seizures, and their treatments. Knowledge is power. The more you learn about epilepsy, the more you can manage your disease.