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EPILEPSY AND LEISURE

by National Society for Epilepsy

How people spend their leisure time is important, not only for their physical well-being but also for a healthy state of mind. Living a full, active, life is important for everyone, and blanket restrictions should not be placed on people simply because they have epilepsy.

Before beginning any activity a person should ask whether it is realistic, given their particular circumstances. People whose epilepsy is totally controlled by anti-epileptic medication do not need to take the same precautions as those who still have seizures. Children with epilepsy at school should be included in the full range of activities unless their seizures prevent this. When seizures are uncontrolled, informed decisions need to be made, where possible involving the child as well.

Risk activities

It is understandable for people with uncontrolled epilepsy to be concerned when taking part in leisure activities. These can be made safer by adopting simple safety measures to help minimise any potential risk. The list of activities given below are those about which questions are most frequently asked.

Swimming

When swimming, it is advisable to go with someone who knows what to do in the event of a seizure. The lifeguard at the pool should be informed about the possibility of seizures, particularly if swimming alone.

Water sports

Sailing, canoeing,and windsurfing also need not be ruled out, provided that there is someone on hand to manage the seizure if necessary. Other more dangerous water sports (such as sub-aqua. Diving) involve much greater risks and are not advisable.

Cycling

If seizures are uncontrolled, it is advisable to cycle with a friend. Busy roads are best avoided. Cycling helmets are recommended for all cyclists.

Riding

Hard hats should be worn by everyone when riding, and it is recommended that people with uncontrolled epilepsy ride with someone who knows what to do in the event of a seizure. If special facilities for the disabled are required, the organisation "Riding for the Disabled" have local groups around the country.

Yoga

Many people find yoga beneficial. The deep breathing involved in many forms of yoga is unlikely to cause problems, and may indeed be relaxing. Any of the national yoga associations can provide further information.

Discos and nightclubs

Going to discos and nightclubs is often part of the social life of many young people. Generally, it is only strobe lights which may trigger a seizure in people who have photosensitive epilepsy. This form of epilepsy is rare, and can be diagnosed during a routine EEG test. It is usually easily controlled by medication. Where strobe lighting is unavoidable, covering one eye reduces the photosensitive effect.

Television and computer games

Electronic screens are widely used in our daily life, and they may sometimes cause problems for those with uncontrolled photosensitive epilepsy. Taking regular breaks away from the screen is recommended, and simple precautions can reduce the risk of seizures further (a factsheet is available from the NSE).

Social drinking

For most people with epilepsy who take anti-epileptic medication, the occasional alcoholic drink causes no problems. However, over-indulgence in alcohol has been known to cause seizures and so heavy drinking is best avoided.

Travel

When flying, it is advisable to inform the cabin crew of the likelihood of seizures, but if someone is very anxious or excited about flying, or is tired due to jetlag, this may trigger a seizure.

It is important that you have sufficient medication to cover the time away, as there may be difficulty in obtaining medication abroad. Brand names are often different, and formulations may vary from country to country. It is advisable to carry written information about epilepsy and the drugs being taken. An E111 form can be obtained from most post offices, and should be completed before travelling so that any medical expenses incurred in the EC countries can be reclaimed.

Special holiday schemes

The Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation (RADAR) produce two publications ("Holidays and Travel Abroad", and "Holidays in the British Isles") which list organisations providing holidays for people with epilepsy, as well as other disabilities. The organisation PHAB runs clubs and holidays and schemes around the UK which bring physically disabled and the able bodied people together.