Swimming

Many people with epilepsy are worried in case they have a seizure in the water. However, with a few sensible precautions, people with epilepsy can enjoy all the benefits of swimming quite safely.

Because there is always the possibility that a seizure could occur, it is important not to underestimate the potential risks. You may wish to seek advice from your doctor, discussing issues such as your seizure type and frequency, and any other factors that could affect safety when swimming. Adequate supervision during swimming, possibly on a one-to-one basis, is essential.

Safety first

• Never swim alone and do not take any unnecessary risks.
• If there is a lifeguard or pool supervisor present, make them aware of your epilepsy.
• If there is no qualified lifeguard present, do not swim deeper than your companion's shoulder height.
• Make sure that your companion knows what to do if you have a seizure and is strong enough to help you.
• Practise what to do if you have a seizure with your companion. This will boost your confidence and theirs.
• Swimming in the sea, lakes or very cold water is dangerous - be sensible.
• Don't swim if you are feeling unwell.
• Avoid overcrowded situations as it might be difficult for others to notice if you had a seizure.

How to deal with a seizure in the water

Absence and partial seizures

These do not usually need emergency action, but care needs to be taken that the person does not sink. Protect the person from danger and, when they recover, check if they need to get out of the water. They may not realise what has happened or they may feel confused.

Tonic-clonic seizures

Basic guidelines

• From behind, hold the person's head above water.
• If possible, move the person to shallow water, holding their head above water.
• Do not restrict movement or place anything in their mouth.
• Once abnormal movement has stopped, move the person to dry land.
• Place the person on their side to recover.
• Stay with the person until they feel better.

When to call an ambulance

• when you believe the person has swallowed or inhaled water;
• the person goes from one seizure to another without regaining consciousness;
• the seizure lasts longer than is usual for the person or, if in doubt, when the seizure has lasted for five minutes;
• the person has been injured.
  
• More information about first aid for seizures

The buddy system

People with epilepsy can find it embarrassing to be 'supervised', especially if they are the only person being watched over. Swimming in pairs is an American idea known as the buddy system.

It is especially useful in swimming classes because it means that everyone has a partner, taking attention away from the person with epilepsy. It also enables life-saving to be taught in pairs and teaches people to be aware of the safety of others.

Once or twice during the session, someone blows a whistle and you must be able to touch your partner immediately. If you can't, it means you are too far away from each other, and you have 'lost'. An agreed forfeit may then be paid. If this partnering method cannot be used it may be better for the 'supervisor' to stay out of the water in case prompt action is needed. Whichever method is used, supervision should be as discreet as possible.

July 2006