Sports

I am a male and have partial seizures. They happen mostly when I exercise and have happened in a whirlpool. I have had epilepsy since I was 17. It seems they occur when my heart rate goes up. Do you know of anyone else or heard of anyone having them mostly during sports or exercising?
If you have not done so already, discuss your concerns with your doctor, to see if s/he may have an answer as to why you tend to experience seizure activity while exercising, including your experience while in a whirlpool.

Research suggests that seizures are actually less likely to occur when a person with epilepsy is engaged in physical activities than when bored or inactive. Living a normal life inevitably involves some risks. This is true for all people, not just those with epilepsy. Exercise is a necessary part of a health life style and, indeed, may improve seizure control. If there might be any special concerns or individual precautions, these can be discussed with the physician.

In most cases, a person with epilepsy can take part in sports or other vigorous activities, depending on the degree of seizure control, the type of sport, and the physician's recommendation. Some physicians recommend avoiding contact sports or activities where sudden loss off consciousness could lead to injury. Research suggests that people are likely to have fewer seizures when actively occupied than when they are bored or inactive.

My parents think it's too dangerous for me to play sports. Isn't there something I can participate in?
Chances are it's completely appropriate for you to participate in your school's athletic program.

Most teens with epilepsy can play sports of some kind. Different sports have different risk factors that you have to think about. You need to ask your doctor questions, too, before you begin to play a sport because epilepsy affects each person in a different way. If you're having a lot of seizures there may be some sports that aren't the best, or safety tips to think about. Oh yes, and ask your doctor to talk to your parents so they won't worry so much.

back to top