Epi-Life.com

	Epilepsy and Leisure
	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.
	Choices should be realistic not restrictive
	Before beginning any activity a person should ask “is this realistic given my particular circumstances?”. People whose epilepsy is totally controlled by anti-epileptic medication will 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 will need to be made, where possible, involving the child as well.
	Which activities might need special consideration?

	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. Swimming in sea, lakes is to be avoided.
	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 advised.
	Cycling

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

	As with cycling helmets, hard hats should be worn by everyone when riding and again it is recommended that people with uncontrolled epilepsy ride with someone who knows what to do in the event of a seizure.
	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 and is usually easily controlled by medication. Where strobe lighting is unavoidable, covering one eye will reduce the photosensitive effect.
	Cinemas
	People with photosensitive epilepsy may avoid going to Cinema. People with other types of seizures can go to the theatres, however avoid late night shows as sleep deprivation can trigger off seizures.
	Yoga

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

	For 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. Medical insurance coverage is preferable.
	Personal and Sexual relationships

	In the majority of cases, epilepsy does not cause problems in these areas. If problems do occur neither the epilepsy nor the medication should be blamed automatically. CIEN may be approached if advice or counseling is needed.