Adapting Plans for Holiday Travel

Epilepsy News From: Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Community Corner: December 23, 2014

Many of us may travel over the holidays to visit friends or family or to go on vacation. Whether you are traveling short or long distances, it’s important to think in advance about what to do should a seizure occur. Review your seizure response plan and make sure it’s flexible and responsive to your needs on the road.

Some tips to consider while traveling.

  • How are you getting to your destination? It’s often easier to travel by car (with someone else driving), bus or train if you have uncontrolled seizures. If seizures occur while traveling, you can stop to get help if needed.
  • If you travel by plane, talk to the flight attendants and make sure your travel companion knows what to do if you have a seizure.
  • Keep pill bottles in a carry on bag with medicines in their original containers. Carry extra with you in case you lose or drop some.
  • If you don’t have a rescue therapy, or medicine to take in case of a change in seizures, ask your doctor or nurse what to do. It helps to be prepared!
  • Update your Seizure Response Plan.
  • If you are changing time zones, plan your med times accordingly. Gradually adjust the times for your medicines over the first few days until you get on the new times. Try not to miss doses so you don’t have breakthrough seizures.
  • Take plenty of breaks or rests. It can be exhausting on the road and when visiting people or places. Allow time to rest and sleep uninterrupted so you don’t get sleep deprived.
  • Think about ways to manage stress. Holiday times can be stressful in good and difficult ways. Plan ahead how to cope with new stressors or recurrence of old ones.
  • Stay healthy. Try to keep away from people with colds or infections and take good care of yourself.
  • Don’t let worries about seizures, injuries or other things get in the way of enjoying yourself. A positive attitude, laughter, and gratitude all contribute to feeling good about yourself, your mood, self-confidence, and good health.
  • Stay connected with others. Remember to visit epilepsy.com forums and chat whenever you need to check in with your online family!

Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday time!

Patty Osborne Shafer RN, MN
Associate Editor/Community Manager
Epilepsy.com

Authored by

Patty Obsorne Shafer RN, MN

Reviewed Date

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

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