Seizures occur when there are alterations in the electrical activity of the brain. These alterations can develop in various ways, ranging from prominent and striking symptoms to more subtle or negligible indications.

It is crucial to seek medical attention if you encounter such symptoms as some seizures can result in injuries or serve as indicators of an underlying medical condition.

Lifestyle changes to reduce seizures

Improving seizure control in individuals with epilepsy may hinge upon adopting certain lifestyle changes. Although further research is required, initial findings indicate that incorporating specific modifications to one's lifestyle and employing stress-reducing techniques could potentially complement the use of anti-seizure medication in managing epilepsy.

Physical activity

Physical activity is beneficial for overall health and generally does not exacerbate seizures. In fact, some types of exercise may even help reduce seizures for certain individuals. However, it is important to consult with your neurologist before embarking on a new exercise program to determine which sports and activities are safe for you.

Low-risk sports that can be considered include basketball, soccer, running, walking, and dancing. On the other hand, higher-risk sports such as climbing, diving, or horseback riding should be approached with caution. Swimming can be a safe option as long as there is always a vigilant lifeguard or capable adult swimmer present.

Yoga, in particular, maybe a beneficial and low-risk form of physical activity as it incorporates stress-reducing techniques. However, it is worth noting that further high-quality research is required to fully understand the effects of yoga on epilepsy treatment, as indicated by a 2017 analysis.

Emotional and mental support

When epilepsy coexists with stress, anxiety, and depression, people may benefit from various forms of support. A study published in October 2017 highlighted the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in addressing these issues. CBT focuses on modifying thoughts and behaviours to better cope with stress, and it has shown potential in reducing seizure frequency among certain patients. Furthermore, CBT has been associated with improvements in overall quality of life, emotional well-being, fatigue, and depression.

Other approaches, such as mindfulness and meditation, counselling, and educational programs, have also demonstrated promise in providing support. 

Music therapy

The potential therapeutic benefits of music have received significant attention. Researchers discovered that listening to particular musical compositions could potentially improve cognitive abilities, which became known as the "Mozart effect." Since then, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of music therapy on various neurological conditions. Although research in this area is limited, preliminary studies indicate that music therapy could potentially lead to a reduction in seizures and a decrease in epilepsy-related abnormalities on electroencephalograms (EEGs) for people with epilepsy.

Dietary changes

Several therapeutic diets are available, such as those that are high in fat, adequate in protein, and low in carbohydrates. Among these options, the ketogenic diet is the most stringent but has the highest likelihood of significantly reducing seizures. However, it is also the most challenging to manage and sustain.

There are alternative dietary approaches, including the modified Atkins diet, medium-chain triglyceride diet, and low-glycemic-index treatment. Although these variations may not consistently yield the same level of seizure reduction as the ketogenic diet, a 2020 study conducted in the UK demonstrates their potential effectiveness in reducing seizures.

Managing stress

Stress often acts as a prevalent trigger for seizures. Therefore, effectively managing stress is crucial for improving epilepsy management. However, it's important to recognize that everyone's perception of stress differs. What alleviates stress for one person may intensify it for another.

People employ various strategies to reduce stress. Some people minimise their workload and delegate work, while others prioritise spending quality time with loved ones. Engaging in hobbies, practising meditation, volunteering, receiving massages, practising yoga, and trying acupuncture are just a few examples of stress-reducing activities. If you find it challenging to handle stress on your own, it is advisable to consult your doctor for assistance in finding suitable support resources.

Sleep

The relationship between sleep and seizures is significant, as insufficient sleep is a frequent cause of seizures. Moreover, inadequate sleep can result in more severe or prolonged seizures. Consequently, medical professionals may provide guidance on practising good sleep hygiene to mitigate these risks. Sleep hygiene encompasses a set of habits that can enhance the likelihood of falling asleep easily, maintaining sleep throughout the night, and experiencing restful sleep. Some of these habits involve adhering to a consistent sleep schedule, minimising daytime napping, and abstaining from consuming stimulating foods and beverages.

Conclusion

While it's important to note that lifestyle changes cannot cure epilepsy, they can significantly lower the likelihood of experiencing seizures and improve overall well-being. What's even better is that many of these modifications come at little to no cost compared to medical treatments.