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Benefits of Sports & Epilepsy

The fear of experiencing a seizure often discourage individuals with epilepsy from engaging in sports and exercise. Similarly, caregivers may be hesitant to encourage physical activity due to concerns about potential triggers. However, exercise offers numerous benefits, including improved fitness, mood, and energy levels, which can contribute to overall well-being and potentially reduced seizure frequency for some individual.

A very common question after being newly diagnosed with epilepsy is,"Am I going to play the sport I love again?" The answer is YES! But sports are an important part of any child's life, and in most cases, sports are safe for children and adults with epilepsy. After you are diagnosed with epilepsy, there will be many life adjustments that are going to happen, and finding out how to control your seizures will be the first thing to take on. It will be hard to put your sport on hold or reduce your active lifestyle until you find out what works best with your epilepsy. 

After you are diagnosed with epilepsy you will meet the neurologist who will assist in making a game plan to best help control your epilepsy and reduce your seizures. Whether it is by medication, dietary treatment or surgeries you will slowly find the adjustment that suits your epilepsy needs. As your seizures are controlled and monitored, your doctor can give you the best information on how to return to your sport or activity in a safe manner. 

Newly Diagnosed

Doctor Approval

Physical activity does not exacerbate epilpesy and may even contribute to improved seizure control through overall health benefits. Most individuals with epilepsy can safely participate in a wide range of sports, including contact sports. While exercise may not trigger seizures for many, taking necessary precautions and making appropriate adjustments can ensure safe participation. Engaging in physical activity and sports can significantly enhance physical and mental well-being for athlete with epilepsy.

Understanding your epilepsy is crucial when selecting suitable sports or exercise. Factors consider include seizure patterns, potential triggers, and informing others about seizure mnagement. While overexertion, dehydration, and other factors can potentially trigger seizures in some cases, the severity of epilepsy varies widely. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine appropriate precautions and activated based on individual circumstances.

Once you have found the right medication or treatment to control your seizures, it is time to get moving again! As you return to your sport or activity it is very important to know your limitations, but it is also very important if you are in a team sport to make others aware of your epilepsy. A seizure can happen at any moment, on the court, field, track, dance floor or anywhere else it can happen. As it may be embarrassing you will want to have a support system ready for you during your sport to keep you as safe as possible. Educate your teammates, coaches and team parents on seizure first aid steps so everyone can be prepared

Risk Factors of Sports & Epilepsy

Returning to Play

Does Exercise Increase the Chance Of Having A Seizure

Exercise Triggers

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Lack of sleep

  • Dehydration

  • Elevated body temperature

  • Low blood sugar levels

Exercise  Saftey Precaution

  • Consult with your doctor

  • Monitor medication

  • Avoid triggers

  • Stay hydrated & eat before exercising

  • Inform coaches & teammates

  • Get plenty of rest

  • Don't continue exercising if you feel faint, lightheaded or nauseous

  • Don't overexert yourself

  • Monitor overheating

  • Wear protective gear if needed

  • Make sure you are accompanied if you're in water sports

  • Let family or friends know you're walking/jogging and exercise route if by yourself

  • Choose a safe environment

  • Carry Identification

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