Seizures can significantly impact people’s lives, impairing their everyday activities, independence, and overall quality of life. While medicine is a standard treatment option, there is mounting evidence that exercise and physical activity play an essential role in seizure management.
Regular exercise in those who suffer seizures can have various benefits. This article will examine how exercise and physical activity can help with seizure control and overall well-being.
Improve Seizure control
Regular exercise can assist people with epilepsy in improving their seizure control. Physical activity causes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood stabilizers and pain relievers. These endorphins may aid in the regulation of brain activity and the prevention of seizures.
Exercise provides multiple benefits for individuals with epilepsy. In addition to improving sleep quality, it can lower stress levels and reduce anxiety, which can help with seizure prevention. Studies show that aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the brain.
This enhanced circulation improves drug delivery to the affected areas, potentially leading to better seizure control and overall drug management. Regularly incorporating aerobic exercise into your routine can improve seizure control and better manage your epilepsy.
Improve Some Side Effects Of Antiseizure Medications
In addition to improving seizure control, exercise, and physical activity may help alleviate some side effects of antiseizure medications. For example, these medications cause nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and even depression.
Exercise can help reduce feelings of fatigue and depression by boosting energy levels and promoting the release of endorphins. Exercise may also alleviate nausea and dizziness by regulating blood sugar levels and improving cardiovascular fitness.
Improve Emotional Well-being and Quality of Life
Physical activity can significantly improve seizure individuals’ emotional well-being and quality of life. Seizures can significantly impact emotions, leading to frustration, isolation, and anxiety.
Physical activity can counteract these negative emotions by releasing endorphins, improving self-esteem, boosting mood, and promoting social interactions. Regular exercise can give individuals a sense of control and empowerment, improving the overall quality of life.
Improve Quality of Sleep
Sleep disturbances are common in individuals with epilepsy, often due to seizures at night. Medications like gabapentin can be prescribed to improve sleep. You can take advantage of Gabapentin Savings via BuzzRx for some discounts when purchasing the said medication.
Aside from medications, regular exercise helps improve sleep quality by regulating the body’s internal clock and promoting healthier sleep patterns. It helps you fall asleep faster, sleep more efficiently, and have better quality deep sleep, leading to feeling more rested and refreshed.
Improve Cognitive Function
Regular exercise and physical activity have improved cognitive performance in people with epilepsy. Exercise causes the release of growth factors, which encourage the development of new neurons and the strengthening of existing brain connections.
Individuals may benefit from better memory, concentration, and overall cognitive performance. Furthermore, physical activity can help mitigate some of the cognitive effects of seizures, such as memory and attention issues.
But when it comes to exercises for individuals with epilepsy, one must know that several activities can be beneficial, as well as some exercises that should be avoided. Here’s more information on both:
Exercises for Epilepsy
Low-impact aerobic exercises
Walking, swimming, and cycling are generally safe and beneficial for individuals with epilepsy. These exercises promote cardiovascular health and overall fitness without putting excessive strain on the body.
Yoga and stretching
Yoga and stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and balance and promote relaxation. These activities can also reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for seizures.
Strength training
Strength training exercises using weights or resistance bands can help build muscle strength and improve overall physical fitness. Performing these exercises under proper guidance is essential to ensure correct form and reduce the risk of injury.
Pilates
Pilates exercises focus on strengthening the core muscles, improving posture, and enhancing body awareness. It can also help to alleviate muscular tension and promote relaxation.
While exercise is generally beneficial for individuals with epilepsy, some specific exercises or activities may pose a higher risk of injury or trigger seizures. Individuals need to discuss their exercise plans with their healthcare providers and consider their specific case. Here are some exercises to be cautious about:
Exercises to Avoid
Contact sports
High-contact sports and activities with a higher risk of falling or head injury, such as football, boxing, or martial arts, should be avoided or modified according to individual circumstances.
Strenuous endurance exercises
Exhaustive endurance exercises, such as long-distance running or intense interval training, may trigger seizures in some individuals. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before engaging in strenuous exercise.
Activities with a risk of overheating or dehydration
Exercising in extreme heat or without adequate hydration can increase the risk of seizures. It’s essential to exercise in a relaxed environment, drink plenty of fluids, and take breaks as needed.
Exercises that increase the risk of hyperventilation
Rapid breathing or hyperventilation may trigger seizures in some individuals. Exercises that involve forced or rapid breathing, such as certain forms of yoga or intense cardio workouts, should be approached cautiously.
Remember, each person’s epilepsy is unique, and what may work for one individual may not for another. Individuals with epilepsy must consult their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate exercise plan.
Final Thoughts
As discussed in this article, regular exercise and physical activity significantly benefit individuals with seizures. But it is still crucial to prioritize safety by consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program. This will ensure the exercise plan is suitable and tailored to meet each individual’s needs.
