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 shower
     • 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
     • Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest times of the day, open when cooler. 
     • it's recommended to open your window in the evening and or early morning to let cool air flow inside the home.
     • 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.
     ✨️ Each experience is different for everyone. 
     
      i hope that what i posted helps you & or your loved one :)

     Updated July 2021

-Lorrie