Epilepsy and Hot Weather

Summer is here and the days are getting hotter . For some people that could mean more seizures . Learn a bit about the link between epilepsy and hot weather.

Scientists do not have definite evidence that heat alone causes seizures . Instead , it is believed that other factors related to warm weather are the reason you might have more seizures when it is hot .

Those include:
• Dehydration
• Sweating and Salt
• May make AED's less effective
• Changes in Temperatures

How To Reduce Your Risk Of Having Heat Related Seizures:
• Keep a water bottle with you
• Avoid sudden changes in Temperatures
• Stay in shade when possible
These are just a few ideas to help manage your condition.

We just went through a unprecedented heat wave never seen here before in Vancouver BC Canada , it was close to 45C in some areas for approximately 5 days straight ( Last week of June 2021 ) , my daughter who has Epilepsy + many others had a very hard time dealing with it .
What i recommend is :
• Listen to your body
• take cold showers
• eat popsicles , fresh fruit , cold pasta etc .
• stay hydrated ( keep water bottle with you & drink even before you get thirsty )
• Try to find a cool place to sit
• If you need to go outside, do it in early morning or early evening when the heat may have subsided .
*Important to note : Not all heat advisories are between 10am - 2pm , check the weather where you live & stay indoors during those peak / hottest hours .*
• if you need to venture outside , wear loose clothing & wear a hat
• Try to refrain from strenuous exercise during a heatwave

• Take naps & rest when you need to !

• Try to sit by a fan or a/C
• Keep a journal ( keep track of anything unusual & report it to you neurologist/health care provider if need be ) . Your health is as important as you are.

i hope that what i posted helps you & or your loved one :)

Updated July 2021

-Lorrie