by EBSCO Medical Review Board

Here are some steps to take to lower the risk of seizures:

  • Follow a sleep routine. Try to go to bed at the same time and sleep the same number of hours each day.
  • Do not drink alcohol. It raises the risk of seizures and causes problems with anti-epileptic drugs.
  • Be sure to tell all doctors about having epilepsy. Many medicines can cause problems.
  • Keep a seizure diary.
  • Go to all advised appointments.
  • Talk to the doctor about a safe diet and exercise program.
  • Talk to the doctor about tasks that may not be safe, such as driving or swimming.

Ketogenic Diet

In some people, mainly children, eating foods that are rich in fats and low in carbohydrates may reduce seizures. This is called the ketogenic diet.

It forces a break down fats instead of carbs to give the body energy. It is often tried in children whose seizures are not helped by medicine. It is not known why it helps.

This diet is not easy. Many foods must be avoided. Children often stay in the hospital to start the diet. They must meet often with a doctor and dietitian. It may also cause:

  • Poor growth
  • Swelling of the pancreas
  • Build-up of uric acid, which can cause kidney stones or gout
  • A greater risk of heart disease

References

Epilepsy in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/condition/Epilepsy-in-adults. Accessed April 7, 2022.

Epilepsy in children. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/condition/Epilepsy-in-children. Accessed April 7, 2022.

Epilepsy information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Epilepsy-Information-Page. Accessed April 7, 2022.

Seizure disorders. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic-disorders/seizure-disorders/seizure-disorders. Accessed April 7, 2022.

Treating seizures and epilepsy. Epilepsy Foundation website. Available at: http://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy. Accessed April 7, 2022.

Revision Information

  • Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Rimas Lukas, MD
  • Review Date: 03/2022
  • Update Date: 04/07/2022