Epilepsy and relationships

It was a seizure. A Tonic chlonic seizure, that both shocked and alarmed my partner, but most of all it alerted me. The next day i recieved a call, the phone sprang to life, his voice was calm, i was told in that relaxed tone, "i don't think this will work out." He was honest. We had other issues despite the seizure, but it had scared him, as it would anyone. Epilepsy like most illnesses needs education. Whenever we invite someone into our lives we tell them things about ourselves, yet in some instances seeing is believing. Ensure them that epilepsy is not something to be afraid of, Seizures are generally controlled through medications. Other things help to lessen Seizures, things like meditation, strangely enough exercise, breathing exercises a brief and brisk walk, anything that helps to relieve stress. Stress triggers Seizures. It is how an epileptics body reacts to an overload of pressure and anxiety, its your bodies way of telling you to calm down. Take a break, ease of the stress, focus on something more positive.

Fixation on negative things can be too much on the brain. We become mentally exhausted, lack of sleep is another trigger for epileptic seizures. Whoever you date inform them that sometimes its worse than it looks. Inform them that an over load of information on the internet can be too indulgent, do not feed them fear or paranoia. Explain to them about what to do before and after a seizure.

First try and relax you. Some of my Seizures have been prevented by drinking chamomile tea and breathing exercises. I open the windows to let the air in, wide, sometimes i even open a door.

I put something to cushion my head. I call the ambulance only if i believe there is a real threat of one coming and i'm on my own. I have a bag ready. When the Seizure is over i turn unto my side, after i've released anything i needed into the bag i crawl to the toilet, or if family are there, they help me.

I crawl back to my bed. Plug on the fan, cold air helps me heal quicker after a seizure. I put on the Tv, the noise keeps me distracted so i'm less paranoid and i try to be less afraid, then when i'm relaxed enough i take another dose of my medicine. (Not advising it, it's just what i do) then i drink a cup of Chamomile tea once more and go to sleep.

Talk your partner through your routines. Fear is often about lack of understanding. The more they understand the less they have to be paranoid about. Knowledge is power, the more you know, the more you understand.