March 7 8 Common Things that Triggers an Epileptic Seizure

Epilepsy characterized by seizure is a neurological condition in which the activity of the brain becomes erratic and abnormal leading to the development of seizures, unusual behavior, sensations, and loss of awareness. Epilepsy can affect individuals of all genders, ages, races, and economic conditions. Diagnosis of epilepsy occurs when you suffer from at least two seizures in twenty-four hours, in which seizures include a wide range of actions such as shaking, twitching, confusion, blank stares, pain, changes in sensation of five sensory organs, automatic movements, stiffness, and feeling of anxiety or pleasure. Although the cause of epilepsy cannot be pinpointed,

the triggers for a seizure are extremely common and include –

1- Missed Medication – It is the most common reason why individuals with controlled seizures have sudden, unexpected ones. If the person is not having controlled seizures, then missing medication may cause the intensity and occurrence of seizures to be more severe. If medication is missed, it is advised to take your medicine as soon as you remember it, unless the time for the next dose has arrived. It is important to not double up on the dose also.

2- Stress – It takes a toll on our body, and from headaches to increased risk for seizures is caused due to it. Stress leads to abnormal brain activity which causes seizures to occur. It is important to keep your stress under control and through effective techniques avoid anxiety and dread.

3- Alcohol – Drinking excess alcohol in a short period is a trigger that causes seizures during withdrawal when alcohol is removed from the body meaning that seizures occur after consumption of alcohol or any substance that may lead to a withdrawal. Many medications also lower the body’s tolerance for alcohol so the individual may easily end up being intoxicated.

4- Menstruation – Women may suffer from increased seizure rates during their period due to hormonal changes. Estrogen is proven to cause and worsen seizures, whereas progesterone is known to protect against seizures. An imbalance in these hormones causes seizures. It is necessary to take precautions when taking pills that affect hormones.

5- Cold and infection – From the stress of being sick to medications that trigger seizures, it is necessary to prevent our body from any ailments.

6- Photosensitivity – Flashing and flickering lights cause seizures in individuals sensitive to light, making it necessary to avoid content that comes with a trigger warning.

7- Fatigue and lack of sleep – While sleeping, there are adjustments to the brain’s electrical and hormonal activity. Irregular sleep and fatigue changes these signals, which causes a breakout of seizures.

8- Poor diet – Irregular eating habits, starvation periods, lack of fluids, low blood sugar, excess caffeine, aggravating products, and vitamin deficiency are causes that may lead to a seizure. Have a well-balanced diet along with enough fluids.

Footnote-

The triggers may vary for each individual. It is necessary to consult your physician and avoid anything that may lead to a seizure.