Living with epilepsy: Tips for staying healthy and managing the condition with lifestyle tweaks

Health benefits of ketogenic diet: Diet plays a crucial role in managing epilepsy. The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, has shown promise for children with drug-resistant epilepsy (Image: Canva)

Epilepsy has many potential causes, which often vary from person to person. It can result from head injuries, genetic factors, or underlying conditions affecting the brain, such as strokes, tumors, or infections. Sometimes, the exact cause is unknown. For example, in children, epilepsy can sometimes appear with no identifiable trigger, while in adults, it may follow an injury or illness.

Epilepsy is not a one-size-fits-all condition. With over 40 types of epilepsy, treatment and management must be personalised to the patient, says Dr Rajesh B. Iyer, Consultant Neurology & Epileptology, Manipal Hospital, Millers Road, Bengaluru. “Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, affecting about 5 in every 1,000 people. Nearly 1 in 20 people may experience a seizure at some point in their lifetime. Seizures occur when abnormal electrical activity in the brain disrupts its normal functioning,” he explains.

He adds that many people can manage epilepsy effectively with medications. “About two-thirds of people experience good control over their seizures, often with just one medication. In some cases, especially in children, epilepsy may even resolve with age. However, about one-third of them may not respond well to medication, requiring alternative treatments like surgery,” he says.

Also read | Ways to manage epilepsy seizures for better quality of life

Here are different types of seizures, and suggests lifestyle tips, suggested by Dr Iyer, to manage this condition:

• Mild seizures: A child may briefly stop and appear “stuck” for a few seconds.
• Severe seizures: These can involve intense shaking, risking injuries from falls or accidents.

Lifestyle tips to manage epilepsy:

• Avoid triggers: Get 7-8 hours of sleep every night and limit screen time, especially exposure to flickering lights. Manage stress through practices like yoga or meditation. Maintain consistent meal times and opt for a low-carb diet to help reduce seizure risks.

• Diet adjustments: Diet plays a crucial role in managing epilepsy. The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, has shown promise for children with drug-resistant epilepsy. It works on the principle that fasting or limiting certain foods can help reduce seizures. Another option is the low glycemic index diet, which focuses on reducing carbohydrate intake to stabilise blood sugar levels. This approach can also help prevent seizures in some patients.

• Medication management: Taking medications exactly as prescribed is essential for controlling epilepsy. Regularly follow up with your doctor to ensure the treatment is effective. If you're planning a pregnancy or experiencing side effects, discuss potential adjustments with your healthcare provider. Proper medication management can make a significant difference in maintaining seizure control.

• Safety precautions: Certain activities require extra care to prevent accidents during seizures. Swimming should be avoided entirely, as seizures in water can be life-threatening. Similarly, driving is not permitted for those with uncontrolled seizures. For outdoor activities like trekking, avoid heights and always have a companion with you for safety.

• Marriage and family life: People with epilepsy can marry and have children, just like anyone else. The likelihood of passing epilepsy to the next generation is very low, approximately 2 percent. Women should consult their doctor about epilepsy medications that are safe during pregnancy. Open communication with your partner about your condition and treatment ensures the right care and support.