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Epilepsy general safety

TRIGGERS

While many people’s seizures occur randomly, some people find that certain things make it more likely they will have a seizure – we call these things ‘triggers’. Triggers are not the cause of the epilepsy, but they can increase the risk of disruption in the brains electrical activity which may then cause a seizure.

COMMON TRIGGERS

  • Medication – missing doses, or stopping taking your medication suddenly 
  • Lack of sleep
  • Being unwell with high temperature, or vomiting
  • Stress (such as exams, arguments,difficult relationships), or excitement (such as birthdays, holidays, big events)
  • Alcohol and recreational drugs
  • Missing meals, or being hungry ordehydrated

NIGHT TIME SAFETY

  • We recommend you do not sleep in the top bunk bed, or top of a cabin bed if you have nocturnal seizures, this is so someone can keep you safe if you were to have a seizure
  • Keep the bed free of clutter – particularly wires (charging leads, headphones etc) to prevent injury in the event of a nocturnal seizure
  • We are not able to recommend any overnight monitoring, but some people do choose topurchase video monitors, or anti-suffocation pillows. Many people opt for audio monitors so that they would hear any seizures occurring. Further information can be found at  https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/info/dailylife/safety-aids-equipment/alarms-monitors

ROAD SAFETY

  • If you are out alone, stay on well-lit roads where possible and always cross at designated crossings.

  • When cycling, or on a scooter wear a well -fitting helmet, and other protective equipment (such as knee pads) as appropriate.

WATER SAFETY

  • If possible, try to take showers instead of baths, to reduce the risk of falling under the water if you have a seizure. 
  • Bathroom doors should not be locked, and you should tell someone else in the house when you are having a shower.
  • When you go swimming, ensure you are with a sensible adult who knows you have epilepsy, or tell the lifeguard this when you enter the water.

MEDICATION

  • You can find information about your current medication at the top of your latest clinic letter.
  • For information on your medication, you can visit www.medicinesforchildren.org.uk
  • It is important to know that some medications can interact with your epilepsy medication, including Some hormonal contraception (females only),
  • Please make sure you tell us/ your GP about any other medications you are taking – including herbal supplements or vitamins

MEDICAL ID

Having a medical ID means if you are out and had a seizure (or other medical problems) those around you including paramedics will know you have
epilepsy, and can contact your parent/carer.