So far, the aim of seizure preparedness has been on seizure control. But why is this so important? Research in epilepsy has shown that seizures are just one part of the problem. However, many of the problems that people with epilepsy face can be the result of how seizure activity in the brain affects brain functioning. Other problems may be due to side effects of medicines or complications of seizures. Some of these problems are more pronounced or more likely to occur in people with uncontrolled seizures, as compared to people with well-controlled epilepsy.

For example, people who continue to have seizures are at greater risk of:

• Injuries
• Cognitive problems (for example problems with thinking, remembering, problem solving, attention)
• Mood disorders or problems with depression and anxiety
• Coordination problems
• Side effects of medicine
• Thinning of the bones
• Reproductive or hormonal problems
• Dying from complications of seizures or injuries.

Preventing seizures and additional problems must be part of seizure management. This means working together with your health care team to control seizures as best as possible. Ways to prevent seizures and other problems must include taking seizure medicines regularly as noncompliance or problems taking medicines is one of the biggest risk factors for uncontrolled seizures. People can also modify their lifestyle and environment to reduce the likelihood that they will have a seizure. Steps then can be taken to address risk factors for seizures and other problems.

Consider a few examples of how to prevent other problems:

• Avoiding alcohol and other substances and managing stress may help seizure control and lessen the risk of mood disorders.
• Keeping good seizure control and avoiding side effects of medicines may help prevent cognitive problems.
• Keeping a regular sleep schedule can help prevent seizures associated with sleep deprivation, and help with treatment of sleep disorders and stress.
• Choosing seizure medicines carefully can help lessen the risk of developing thinning of the bones (osteoporosis) or developing hormonal problems that may affect reproduction.
• Wearing protective helmets can decrease the chance of head trauma.

Continue to SUDEP

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, MD and Patricia O. Shafer, RN, MN.
Last Reviewed:5/25/07

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