Sports and leisure

Introduction

Having the opportunity to participate in sport and leisure activities is important for everyone, including people with epilepsy. Lack of understanding about epilepsy, and how it affects each person differently, can mean people with epilepsy are cautioned against taking part in some activities where this is not necessary. In fact, with qualified supervision, where appropriate, and the relevant safety precautions, there is little that you should avoid if you have epilepsy. Many people with epilepsy have their seizures completely controlled by anti-epileptic medication and do not need to take any greater safety precautions than anyone else.

Research has shown that when a person is active they are less likely to have seizures. So, for some people with epilepsy, sport can be of real benefit. A very small number of people with epilepsy find that exercise increases their likelihood of having seizures. This is usually due to over-exertion. Also, taking up exercise or sporting activities for the first time, or after a long period of inactivity, could affect your body weight and metabolism which in turn could have an effect on your seizure control.

Talking to your doctor

Before taking up a new sport or leisure activity it is a good idea to speak to your doctor first, particularly if your epilepsy is uncontrolled. Things to take into account are the type, severity and frequency of your seizures, known triggers, such as stress and excitement, and whether you have any warning before a seizure. It is also important to consider whether appropriate support is likely to be available for your chosen activity.