Daily Living with Epilepsy

What is going to be different living with Epilepsy?

There are many parts of life that will be different when living with Epilepsy. Fear not, though! All  these changes can be made with time. The Center for Epilepsy and Seizure Awareness does a great job covering some of the basic areas of life that are different and the hardest to get used to when living with Epilepsy. They list the hardest areas depending on your age: child, teen or young adult, and adult. Some of the challenges you may face with Epilepsy include:

• Telling friends and family about your condition.
• Having seizures very often.
• Being afraid of having seizures in public.
• Missing school or work.
• Understanding what your medicine does.
• Remembering to take your medicine.
• Having trouble with memory.
• Learning how to know when a seizure may be coming.
• Dealing with stress.
• Using special diets and workouts.
• Being upset about having Epilepsy.

Feel free to refer to the Center for Epilepsy and Seizure Awareness website for some more facts about living with Epilepsy. I have included the link below.

http://www.epilepsy.cc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=113&Itemid=111

Resource:

"Issues Faced by Individuals and Families Living with Epilepsy." The Center for Epilepsy and Seizure Awareness. The Center for Epilepsy and Seizure Awareness, n.d. Web. 1 June 2014. <http://www.epilepsy.cc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=113&I

Will I really have all of these problems?

Of course not! These are just a few areas that people with Epilepsy often struggle with. The most important thing to know is that all of it is normal.  You are not alone. We all feel different when we face changes in our life. One of the best ways to cope with all of these changes is to join a support group. Look online for places where you live that might offer some support.  You may also ask your doctor. They can always point you in the right direction or point you to someone who can.

Here is an interview with Miss Jenny LaBaw. She talks about how she has dealt with her Epilepsy while still living her dreams:

Having a hard time finding support groups in your area?

Fear not! There is a ton of support groups online. If you are underage, make sure your parents are aware of what you want. If you are an adult, feel free to explore your options online. I have included a list of some great support sites below. If you or a friend know of any others, please leave a comment below with the type, link, or location of the support!

Epilepsy Support Forums and Chat Rooms:

http://epilepsyfoundation.ning.com/forum

http://epilepsy.supportgroups.com/

http://www.healthfulchat.org/epilepsy-chat-room.html

Knowledge and support for Epilepsy is growing every day. So, remember:

photo taken from: http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-and-support-epilepsy.png 

Want some more information on how to work, go to school, pursue your goals with Epilepsy? 

The Edmonton Epilepsy Association published this excellent booklet on Epilepsy. It covers what to expect and some simple things to pay close attention to on a daily basis. It also offers some advice for work, school, taking medicine, working out, and much much more! If you have the time, it is a great read.  I know we are all busy though, so I will summarize some key daily living tips from the pamphlet:

• Remember to take your medicine on time and DO NOT SKIP. Medication is the main way Epilepsy is treated. It is important to always take your medicine. If you do not like the effects of your medicine, talk to your doctor about other medicines. One of the most common ways to cause a seizure when you have epilepsy is by skipping your medicine. It will take time to get used to, but try talking with your support groups or friends and family to try and make it easier.
• Exercise is good for you! You do not have to stop exercising when you have Epilepsy. Studies have shown exercise actually lowers stress and can help prevent seizures. Things like tennis, basketball, running, golfing, and volleyball are all great choices. Try to avoid high contact sports like tackle football and hockey. Always have someone who knows about your condition nearby just to be safe.

photo taken from: http://www.dailyperricone.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Exercise1.jpg

• Avoid getting down by telling a friend. Epilepsy is hard. It is normal to feel upset and angry. Sadly, this means people with Epilepsy are more likely to experience depression. The more people you share your feelings with, the more support you will have. You do not have to be happy about your condition, but you also do not have to be alone. Talk to your doctor if talking to others is not helping and you are feeling depressed.
• Identification jewelry is very helpful. Sometimes you do not want to tell people about your condition. That is perfectly alright! To be on the safe side though, try getting a medical necklace or bracelet that names your condition. That way, if you do have a seizure, people nearby and also doctors will know how to help. There are many different options. Here is an example below: 

photo taken from: http://www.medicalbraceletsonline.com/_files/image/WC1050.jpg

Where can I buy an Epilepsy bracelet/necklace?

Glad you asked! Here are some great websites that offer Epilepsy medical jewelry:

http://www.medicalbraceletsonline.com/epilepsy.php

http://www.americanmedical-id.com/extras/epilepsy.php

http://www.n-styleid.com/epilepsy/

Some of these resources provide a little bit more information on Epilepsy so you can learn while you shop! So, take your time exploring each website. You never know what you might find.

Here is the link to the Edmonton Epilepsy Association pamphlet:

http://www.epilepsy.cc/images/media/edmonton_books/206351_Living_With_Epilepsy.pdf

Leave a comment below if you have more questions about daily living with Epilepsy.