Every September, the third Wednesday in September is National Women’s Health and Fitness Day. Setting realistic goals for your health and wellbeing will help many women manage their epilepsy. This is a time to take care of yourself. Learn more about how you can incorporate wellness and exercise into your daily routine. Remember that every woman is unique and that what works for one woman may not work for another. Before making major changes in your fitness and health, consult your healthcare provider.
Health and Wellness
Epilepsy can cause health problems in girls and women with epilepsy. Here are some important topics for women to discuss with their doctor when it comes to health.
Hormones
Epilepsy can be affected by hormonal changes, from puberty to menopause. Changes in seizure frequency are most likely to be caused by hormonal changes during the period. Many nerve cells in the brain are affected directly by estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are the main sex hormones for women. Although doctors continue to research the relationship between hormones, seizure frequency and seizure frequency it is important to speak to your doctor about how to reduce seizure frequency at certain times of your menstrual cycle.
Birth Control and Anti-Seizure Medicines
It’s important to mention that some anti-seizure medication can affect the effectiveness of hormonal birth controls when discussing contraception . Talk to your doctor about all contraception options that are most suitable for you based on your antiseizure medication.
Additional Health Considerations
Epilepsy can be a disabling condition for some women and can lead to many health problems. Many people may also have epilepsy and other disabilities. Multiple disabilities can also cause issues in mobility, sensation, pain and thinking. These issues might not be openly discussed. When speaking with your healthcare team, don’t be afraid to raise any health topics that are important to you.
Fitness
Consider a fitness program to help you monitor your health and work with your doctor. Research has shown that regular exercise can provide both physical and emotional benefits to epileptics. It can be hard for epileptic women to find an exercise program that suits their needs and is safe. Here are some tips to make you feel at ease when you start your fitness journey.
Safety
Depending on the frequency of epileptic seizures, exercising with epilepsy may pose safety hazards for some women. Always consult your doctor before you start a new exercise program. There are several steps you can take to avoid injury once it is safe to start exercising. It’s a great way for friends and family to get active while you exercise. Invite your family and friends to join you for a short walk or to learn how to do online yoga. In case you need to be notified of epilepsy before you go on an activity with others, let your instructor know. In case of a seizure, you might also consider wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace that includes your name, emergency contact information and medication.
You can start at your own pace
You may find it tempting to jump into a new exercise program quickly, especially if the activity is exciting. Start slow, one to two times per week if you are new to exercise. When you feel more confident with your abilities, increase the intensity and frequency of your exercise. If you don’t get enough sleep or haven’t eaten well, you shouldn’t exercise. Your exercise program should be tailored to your needs and comfort level. Talk to your healthcare team if you don’t feel like exercising is right for your epilepsy journey. You can then stop doing it until you feel able to resume them.
No matter your life stage, it is important to take care of your health and stay fit. To share your personal wellness goals with others with epilepsy, we encourage you to make new connections and to network with them. Women with epilepsy can work together to improve their health one step at a while.
