Some people may find that seizures occur in a pattern or are more likely to occur in certain situations. Sometimes these connections are just by chance, but other times it’s not. Keeping track of any factors that may precipitate a seizure (also called seizure triggers) can help you recognize when a seizure may be coming. You can then be prepared and learn how to lessen the chance that a seizure may occur during this time.

Some people will notice one or two triggers very easily, for example their seizures may occur only during sleep or when waking up. Other people may notice that some triggers bother them only when a lot is going on at once or it is during a 'high risk' time for them (for example when under a lot of stress or when sick).

Some seizure triggers

• Specific time of day or night
• Sleep deprivation - overtired or not sleeping well
• At times of fevers or other illnesses
• Flashing bright lights
• Alcohol or drug use
• Stress
• Associated with menstrual cycle (women) or other hormonal changes
• Not eating well, low blood sugar
• Specific foods, excess caffeine or other products that may aggravate seizures
• Use of certain medications

Reflex epilepsy

Some people may notice that their seizures occur in response to very specific stimuli or situations, as if the seizure is a 'reflex. There is a type of epilepsy called 'reflex epilepsy' – in this type, seizures occur consistently in relation to a specific trigger. For example, one type of reflex epilepsy is photosensitive epilepsy where seizures are triggered specifically by flashing lights. Other types of reflex epilepsies may be seizures triggered by the act of reading or by noises. These reflex epilepsies are not common. However, knowing the type of epilepsy and trigger is important information to build into your treatment plan. You can then work on eliminating these triggers whenever possible or find ways to lessen their effect on you.

For more information:

• Reflex Epilepsies
• Provoke a Seizure

Continue to What type of doctor should I see?

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