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Epilepsy and Swimming

Sun, 05/16/2010 - 11:30

Hey,

I've recently been diagnosed with TLE, but have not been prescribed meds for it yet (the process is taking rather long). I've always enjoyed swimming and had planned to pick it up again. I'm okay with this, but my boyfriend is angry about my decision to go swimming. He says I should wait, and that it's too dangerous. I say that, as long as I'm with a friend who knows I have seizures (I've only had ONE since being diagnosed 4 months ago), and as long as there are lifeguards, I honestly believe I will be okay.

What do you think? Is it okay for me to go swimming? I can't just stop my life because I have epilepsy. Swimming is something that helps relax me and makes me happy, so I do not agree with my boyfriend and think he is being a bit ridiculous. I understand he worries about me, but it's my life, my decision...not his.

Thanks. 

Comments

Re: Epilepsy and Swimming

Submitted by tncabell on Fri, 2011-07-22 - 11:52
I have epilepsy and when i go swimming i make sure someone is in the pool with me and someone is outside the pool, but right by it.  just incase.  sometimes i have the aura and sometimes i dont, so i like to have someone with me.  i also keep the door cracked open when i shower and only shower when my husband is home.

Re: Epilepsy and Swimming

Submitted by indyfan on Tue, 2011-07-26 - 01:14
No one can say if it's ok for you to go swimming, that is your decision alone. It's a risk that you yourself are going to have to put on yourself and not others around you. Just make sure there are lifeguards nearby and that someone is swimming with you. Start out with simple pool sessions, don't try to do laps or heavy exercises, just have fun. When you feel you are ready, try to do a lap or two. Slowly progress, don't push your body too hard. I've been having simple partials for about 6 years, I was diagnosed about 4 years ago and since then have experienced two gran mals. I still swim leisurely and do a lap or two without any problems. I mostly help my brother train for Air Force Para-Rescue. I have never had any kind of seizure in the pool. I wish you the best of luck, swimming is great exercise, and it is really fun. -Michael

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