Exercise and Epilepsy: Managing Stress, Sleep, and Seizure Control

It’s a fact that exercise is good for the mind and the body. The benefits range from relieving stress, improving mood, reducing the risk of heart disease, blood sugar management to weight control. Those with epilepsy are not exempt from the benefits of exercise; in fact, there have been reports of a reduction in seizures for those that follow an exercise program.

Stress and a lack of sleep are known seizure triggers and regular exercise can help with both. It is well known that exercise can improve sleep quality, and when you have a good night’s sleep you can deal with stress more effectively. Additionally, when you exercise, the increase in blood flow helps oxygen reach the brain, which improves mood and cognitive abilities, like learning and memory. The results of physical activity go beyond losing weight; you will feel more rested, less anxious, and think more clearly.

While knowing that exercise will benefit you, you may still be hesitant to start an exercise regime. Perhaps the side effects of your medication make it difficult; tiredness or fatigue are common. You may experience anxiety or fear, unsure if it is safe for you to exercise and how it may affect your seizures. You are not alone with these thoughts, but be assured that it is possible to make lifestyle changes to incorporate movement with positive results.

So what exercise can you safely incorporate into your routine?

Recommended Exercise Examples

Low- to moderate-intensity aerobic activities, such as brisk walking, cycling on a stationary bike, yoga, and swimming with supervision, are generally recommended. Starting with short sessions of 15 to 30 minutes a few times a week allows you to build stamina safely. 

Choosing the right types of physical activity can help maximize health benefits while minimizing potential risks. Low- to moderate-intensity exercises performed in controllable environments are generally recommended. Because they offer lower impact on the body, allow for easy pacing, and can be easily stopped if you feel unwell:

• Brisk Walking: An accessible, low-impact exercise that can be done almost anywhere and easily adapted to your personal fitness level.
• Yoga and Gentle Stretching: Helps reduce stress, enhance flexibility, and promote relaxation in a calm, controlled setting.
• Stationary Cycling: Provides an excellent cardiovascular workout without the danger of falls or traffic accidents associated with outdoor biking.
• Supervised Swimming: Offers a full-body workout with minimal joint strain, provided proper safety measures—such as swimming with a buddy or under lifeguard supervision—are strictly followed.

Small changes can achieve big results. Look at your current routine and see if there are ways to incorporate some physical activity. It could be as simple as getting off the bus a few stops earlier, taking the stairs and not the elevator, or joining a walking or jogging club. When it comes to more strenuous physical activity, make sure that the correct safety measures have been taken. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or specialist to design an exercise plan tailored to specific medical histories and seizure triggers.

Safety Precautions

When engaging in physical activity, taking the appropriate safety precautions is essential:

• Swimming: Always try to swim with a buddy or in supervised areas.
• Contact Sports: Wear appropriate protective headgear and inform your team members or coach about your condition.
• Running or Outdoor Activities: Let someone know your planned route and expected timing before heading out.

Track Your Progress

Keeping a log or daily journal can be an invaluable tool when building a new routine. Try tracking your physical activity alongside your sleep patterns, stress levels, and seizure frequency. Documenting these factors over time allows you and your care team to spot helpful patterns, measure improvements, and make informed adjustments to your lifestyle and healthcare plan.

Taking charge of your wellness is a powerful step forward. Before beginning any new exercise routine, take a moment to talk with your neurologist or healthcare provider. Together, you can create a safe, tailored activity plan that fits your unique medical history, aligns with your seizure management strategy, and empowers you to achieve your health goals with confidence.

Sources:
https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/exercise-and-epilepsy#.XxBSnyhKjIU
https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living/fitness-and-exercise/exercise-and-epilepsy
http://epilepsytoronto.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/PhysicalActivityandEpilepsy.pdf