An epilepsy diagnosis, which can come at any age, can provoke questions, anxieties, and doubts about the future.
Many people with epilepsy and their caregivers grapple with fears about the imminent threat of a seizure and how it could limit their ability to stay safe or live a full life. As understandable as these concerns are, for many people living with epilepsy, a full and rewarding life is still possible, especially when simple safety precautions are followed.
Plan ahead
One of the most important tips for ensuring your safety is preparation. Having a seizure action plan in place and sharing it with people in your life empowers friends, family, and co-workers to respond appropriately in case of a seizure. A seizure action plan provides information in one place about your seizures and how others can and should respond, including if and when to call 911 and when to just stay calm and keep you safe. It may provide information about where to find your emergency rescue medication if you have one and when to administer it if needed.
Safety at home
Home is where we spend the majority of our time and where we should feel the safest and most comfortable. Putting the following safeguards in place can help ensure your home is set up with your safety in mind.
People with epilepsy should take showers instead of baths and never lock the bathroom door. Beds should be low to the floor. Precautions should be taken in the kitchen when working with open flames and sharp objects.
Safety in water
People with epilepsy can swim and participate in water sports, as long as appropriate safety measures are followed diligently. Always talk to your healthcare provider to determine if swimming or other water activities are right for you. People with epilepsy are at an increased risk of drowning, so taking extra precautions around water is of critical importance.
Some safety tips include:
- Never swim alone, and whenever possible, swim with a lifeguard on duty.
- Always swim with someone who knows you have seizures and can assist you if needed.
- Wear brightly colored swim gear.
- Avoid colors that blend in with water and your surroundings.
- If you are in a pool, swim in an outside lane so that it is easier for someone to help you if necessary.
- Wearing a life jacket is recommended for most water sports.
It is also important to have someone with you who knows how to help if you have a seizure, like a coach or instructor.
Safety at school
If you have a student with epilepsy in your care, there are steps you can take to ensure a safe school year. In addition to helping create a safer school environment, working with your school to inform and educate classmates and teachers will help spread awareness and reduce the stigma often associated with epilepsy.
Ensure that all staff at the school are trained in seizure recognition and first aid. Schedule a meeting with school staff to discuss any accommodation needs and the student’s seizure action plan. Share specific details of your student’s seizures — this will help the school personalize care for your child more confidently.
It can be scary to navigate an epilepsy diagnosis, but with preparation and some minor modifications to home life and certain activities, individuals with epilepsy can live a full and safe life!
