Managing Triggers
Some people find that seizures may occur in a pattern or are more likely to occur in certain situations or under certain conditions. In an earlier section, we stressed the importance of keeping track of any factors that may bring on a seizure (also called seizure triggers). This is important, because avoiding or managing seizure triggers is something you and only you can do to lessen the chance that a seizure may occur under those circumstances. Parents can also do this for their children with epilepsy.
- Remember that not all people with epilepsy have seizure triggers, and for those that do, triggers might be different from person to person. In other words, not all persons whose seizures can be triggered have the same seizure triggers.
- Triggers may be different from one person to the next. For example, seizures may occur only during sleep or when waking up. Some women may notice that they are more likely to have a seizure during certain parts of their menstrual cycle, while other people may notice seizures more often at times of high stress.
In this section, you will find information on how to identify seizure triggers and how to include ways of including trigger management in your seizure preparedness plans.
For more information:
- Missed medicine
- Sleep deprivation
- Stress
- Alcohol
- Drug abuse
- Menstrual cycle
- Nutritional factors
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Flashing lights
Resources
Epilepsy Centers
Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.
Epilepsy Medication
Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.
Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline
Call our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.
Tools & Resources
Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.