If you have been diagnosed with epilepsy, you might fear experiencing future epileptic seizures. Unfortunately, the condition can develop at any age and in any gender, and it can last for a limited time, or permanently.

A seizure is often difficult to predict, as it happens during a sudden burst of electrical brain activity that disrupts its messages. Also, seizures are determined by the part of the brain affected, as a person could lose awareness or remain alert and experience different sensations or movements.

Yet, you will be pleased to learn there are actions you can take to reduce your seizures or even stop them altogether. If you have recently received an epilepsy diagnosis, find out how to take control of the condition.

Take Your Medication on Schedule

Following an epilepsy diagnosis, your doctor will likely have prescribed medication to help minimise seizures, known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). It is essential to take your medication on schedule to reduce your risk of an epileptic seizure, as they can adjust chemical levels in the brain. According to the NHS, AEDs help control seizures in 7 out of 10 people. The AEDs prescribed are determined by your age, the seizure type and your plans for starting a family.

Pinpoint Your Triggers

Certain activities may trigger an epileptic seizure. Monitor your lifestyle to pinpoint potential triggers, such as:

Cutting potential triggers from your lifestyle could result in fewer seizures. However, some people may struggle to identify a trigger for their seizures. If so, it may help to write in a journal to discover any specific behaviour patterns that led to an epileptic seizure.

Give CBD a Try

Various studies have found that cannabidiol (CBD) can prove effective for treating epilepsy. More research is needed to support the early findings, but it might be a solution for preventing seizures. However, it is essential to invest in a high-quality CBD brand to maximise its potential health benefits. For example, you can try Beliebis UK’s best selling CBD oil, as it contains nine cannabinoids and five terpenes blended in hemp seed oil, which results in 1000mg CBD in a 10ml dropper bottle.

Adopt Self-Control Tactics

Many people living with epilepsy have stated they experience aura symptoms 20 minutes before a seizure strikes. For example, their eyesight might become blurry, they may see strange lights or thay may experience unusual smells. Also, some people feel anxious, depressed, tired or headachy a few days before the event. If you can detect a potential seizure, you could stop it from occurring with self-control methods, such as:

  • A walk outdoors
  • Aromatherapy
  • Meditation
  • Absorbing yourself in a task
  • Telling the seizure “No”

Even if the self-control methods cannot prevent a seizure, they may decrease its intensity.

Stick to a Strict Meal Schedule

Skipping a meal can cause hypoglycaemia, which can lead to a seizure. Also, it is more likely to happen to people living with epilepsy and diabetes. Sticking to a strict meal schedule will provide your body with a regular burst of glucose to prevent seizures. Even if you’re busy at work or home, you must set time aside for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Protect Yourself from a Head Injury

A head injury can cause single or recurrent seizures in people with and without epilepsy. Following an accident, you might experience seizures for many weeks or months. If you live with the condition, you must protect yourself from future head injuries to prevent more seizures. For example, it is essential to wear a helmet when playing contact sports, cycling or skating. Also, it might help to perform various stability exercises to reduce your likelihood of a fall.

Consider Surgery

If AEDs cannot control your seizures or tests prove they are due to an issue in a small area of the brain, you might be eligible for surgery. After a procedure, there is a good chance you will never experience another epileptic seizure.

A doctor may recommend one of two surgical procedures:

  • Laser ablation (currently unavailable in Britain)
  • Responsive neurostimulator (RNS) insertion

Conclusion

An epilepsy diagnosis is bound to feel overwhelming, but you can introduce various tactics to allow you to take greater control of your seizures and enjoy a better quality of life. Talk to your doctor about the different medications available and have patience when finding one that matches your needs. Also, take greater control of the condition by identifying your triggers, trying CBD oil, or practising various self-control techniques.