Although seizures can't always be predicted or controlled, there are things you can do to lower the chances of having one. Your actions also have the power to increase your chance of having a seizure.

When do I increase my chances of having seizures?

Many people with epilepsy say that sleep deprivation, increased alcohol consumption, and menstrual changes lead to an increase in seizure frequency. You probably already knew that. What you may want to know is why. The reason is that all of these situations change your brain's excitability. Your brain is very sensitive to these changes, and if there is a big enough change from normal, you may begin to have a seizure.

Emotional stress also can lead to seizures. Emotional is usually related to a situation or event that has personal meaning to you. Often you will feel a loss of control. In particular, the kind of emotional stress that leads to most seizures is worry or fear. One study found that in some patients, anxiety—another term for worry and fear—led to hyperventilation (overbreathing) and an increase in abnormal brain activity and seizures. Other emotions that have been linked with stress and seizures are frustration and anger.

How can I decrease my chances of having seizures?

Probably the best way to decrease your seizure frequency is to follow your medication schedule very closely. A patient survey showed that the number one reported cause of increased seizures was missed medications. When you don't take your seizure medicine or take less than you should, the levels of medication in your body and brain fall. Your brain may begin to show unusual activity, which can lead to seizures.

If you have trouble remembering to take your seizure medicines as you've been instructed, talk with your doctor. He or she can work with you to set up a schedule and help you get on track to complete seizure control.

What else can I do?

There are some other things you can do to decrease your chance of seizures:

• Start (and continue) a regular sleep pattern. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
• Limit your alcohol consumption to a few (or no) drinks, and don't drink too often.
• Find an outlet to help you deal with anger, frustration, and worries in your life. Exercise, music, or conversation works for many people.

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06