Things You Can and Can’t Control About Epilepsy
Hi Neurocurious!
Living with epilepsy can feel unpredictable. But understanding what you can control, and what you can’t, is one of the most empowering steps you can take toward managing your condition.
Awareness means recognizing what is in your hands so you can focus your energy where it truly matters. Let’s go:
You Can Control
1. Rest and Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important factors in epilepsy management.
Lack of rest can disrupt brain activity and increase the likelihood of seizures.
Try to:
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Create a calm bedtime routine.
Avoid screens, caffeine and heavy meals before bed.
A well-rested brain is less likely to experience sudden changes in electrical activity.
2. Stress Management
Stress can influence the nervous system and trigger seizures in some individuals.
While stress can’t be avoided completely, you can control how you respond to it.
Practices that may help include:
Breathing exercises or meditation.
Gentle physical activity such as yoga or walking.
Setting healthy boundaries and giving yourself rest when needed.
3. Medication and Treatment
Following your prescribed treatment plan is essential.
Skipping doses or adjusting medications without consulting your neurologist can increase seizure risk.
To stay consistent:
Take medication at the same time each day.
Use reminders or a medication tracker.
Communicate regularly with your healthcare provider about side effects or changes.
4. Awareness
Knowledge is power when living with epilepsy.
Tracking your seizures, triggers, mood, and sleep can reveal patterns that help your doctor personalize your care.
Using tools like a Seizure Journal can help you record:
Date, time, and duration of seizures.
Possible triggers (fatigue, stress, missed medication).
Post-seizure symptoms or recovery time.
If you would like to download my FREE Daily Seizure Journal, click here:
(https://tr.ee/QPTfNnqh0W)
Awareness turns uncertainty into insight, helping you and your medical team make informed decisions.
You Can’t Control
1. Genetic
Some forms of epilepsy have a genetic component or are linked to underlying brain conditions. While you can’t change your genes, knowing your history helps your neurologist tailor your treatment.
2. Unexpected Triggers
Hormonal fluctuations, illnesses, or sudden exposure to flashing lights can still cause seizures, even when you’re following your plan closely. This doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong — it simply reflects how complex the brain can be.
3. The Need for Medication
For many people, long-term medication remains a crucial part of seizure control.
Taking it consistently is not a weakness — it’s a sign of proactive, responsible care.
You can’t control every aspect of epilepsy, but you can strengthen your understanding, routines, and communication with your healthcare team.
Epilepsy management is about balance: caring for your body, protecting your brain, and staying aware of your triggers. With time, small daily habits can make a significant difference.
Take control of your epilepsy!
Manage your rest, stress, and treatment — awareness helps with the rest.
Follow @theneurocurious for insights on enhancing brain health through lifestyle and movement. Don't forget to download the Daily Seizure Journal here: (https://tr.ee/QPTfNnqh0W)
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