If you or a loved one has epilepsy , you may be wondering if living alone with epilepsy is possible or even safe.
Fortunately, it is possible for someone living with seizures to safely live independently, especially if they’re proactive about minimizing safety hazards and are educated about epilepsy safety.
Here’s what you should know about living alone with epilepsy.
5 precautions for living alone with epilepsy
Below are five seizure safety considerations and precautions for epilepsy that can make all the difference in creating a safe living environment for someone who experiences seizures.
1. Wear a medical ID bracelet or other jewellery describing your condition
Wearing an epilepsy ID bracelet can be invaluable in helping emergency responders be aware of your conditions if you’re experiencing a seizure and are unable to communicate that information. Shop American Medical ID’s selections and customise it with the pertinent information of your choosing (name, condition, medications, etc.).
2. Wear a seizure alert device
A seizure alert device is a way to give you and your loved ones peace of mind if you live alone. One example is ID Care Package, which is comfortable to wear and works to detect clinically urgent epileptic seizures while you’re asleep. It works when worn as an armband that monitors your heart rate and motion while asleep. If it detects a serious epileptic seizure, it sends a warning to a caregiver via a wireless signal.
3. Have a seizure response plan
Another way to provide peace of mind to your friends and family members is to outline a seizure response plan with them. It can include tips on how to identify the signs of a seizure, how to position your body if they witness you having a seizure, and important phone numbers to call, such as your doctor or 000.
4. Fall proof your living space
As outlined above, you can take steps to minimise your risk of falling or hurting yourself, such as by reducing trip and slip hazards in your home.
5. Know your triggers
It may take some time, but you can work to identify what individual factors may be connected to your seizures. These include things like stress, lack of sleep or alcohol and drug use, and being in tune with these factors can help you reduce your risk.
Key takeaway on living with epilepsy
Coping with epilepsy issues often involves safety considerations for people with epilepsy who live alone. While it is possible for people who experience seizures to live independently, it’s important to take precautions to optimize their level of safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any things you can’t do with epilepsy?
While the below items aren’t impossible, there are certain precautions doctors will advise you take, including the below activities to avoid with epilepsy:
Swimming alone
Playing contact sports
High climbing
Cooking over an open flame
Giving a baby a bath
Drinking alone or excessively
Should a person with epilepsy be left alone?
A person with epilepsy can safely live alone, though it’s recommended they outline a seizure response plan, implement safety measures in their home as outlined above, install an emergency alarm system, and wear a medical ID bracelet.
Are epileptic seizures dangerous?
While most seizures don’t require hospitalization, you can find yourself in a dangerous situation if you fall while having a seizure, or if you’re driving while experiencing a seizure, for example. And though uncommon, seizures can sometimes result in death.
Can you stop yourself from having a seizure?
While there isn’t much you can do to stop a seizure as it’s happening, anti-epileptic medications are designed to prevent seizures, so make sure you’re taking your medication as directed by your doctor.
Can you survive a seizure alone?
By taking steps to minimize safety hazards and making it easier to call for help during an emergency, you can survive a seizure alone.
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