Stress is a natural response of the body. When we are in danger or under pressure, the brain releases hormones called cortisol and adrenaline. These substances help the body to face challenges in the natural way. It works by raising heart rates, increasing focus and. But too much stress for too long can damage the brain and nervous system.
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Uncontrolled stress or anxiety that doesn’t go away can cause epilepsy seizures. Stress and constant anxiety also can affect your sleep, another risk for more seizures. But can a seizure be triggered from stress? This is a common question among epilepsy patients while looking for possible seizure triggers. The exact reason why stress can lead to seizures in some people is not known. But for many people with epilepsy, it can be a causal factor.
Stress-Induced Seizures:
Stress related seizures can occur for various reasons. Below, is a list to the two main classes of seizure that can be induced by stress:
1. Epileptic Seizures
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that leads to recurring and uncontrollable seizures. People with epilepsy already have a condition that causes them to have seizures. Stress reduces the limit to deal with a seizure. Hence, it makes the brain more likely to have a seizure. A person with epilepsy who has high levels of stress in his or her life may not be processing normally. Thus, they are more likely to suffer from a seizure.
2. Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES)
PNES can be like epileptic seizures, but they are different. These seizures are usually due to reasons like anxiety, trauma or depression. PNES is different from epilepsy as it’s not caused due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They are a reaction to emotional suffering.
PNES is most commonly triggered by mental stress or a physical condition, such as:
- A condition of the heart that causes fainting
- Diabetes or any other disorders
- Emotional pain
- Mental pain
- Physical or sexual abuse
- A major accident
The Stress, Anxiety and Epilepsy Connection
Stress is unavoidable in life, but there are strategies to handle it. This helps you cope up with restlessness. Anxiety can also strike for no reason and leave a person feeling nervous and confused. A recent diagnosis of epilepsy or worrying about unexpected seizures can add to stress too. In some cases, even the drugs used for epilepsy can cause anxiety as a side effect.
Stress May Be Triggering Seizures: Here Are the Signs
- Stress can be difficult to separate from seizures, but there are some signs to look out for:
- Seizures occur more during stressful events or after an emotional trauma.
- The seizures have no known medical cause. Tests such as EEG scans do not show abnormal brain activity.
- Other stress-related symptoms, such as anxiety, headaches and difficulty sleeping can cause seizures.
Speak to a doctor if you or someone you know is having these symptoms. They can help figure out if the seizures are stress-related. Medical help can also recommend the best treatment options.
Managing Stress in order to Control Seizures
Stress is part of life, but it can also trigger seizures if not controlled.
1. Use Relaxation Techniques
These techniques can include deep breathing and meditation to calm the mind and managing stress. Hence, it’s important to take some time to relax a few minutes in a day.
2. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep deprivation can worsen stress and raise the chance of seizures. Get a quality sleep of 7-9 hours per night. Try to form a relaxing bedtime routine and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
3. Exercise Regularly
Moving your body is a great way to relieve stress and improve mood. You can try to boost yourself by dancing, swimming or jogging.
4. Talk to Someone
Opening up about yourself with a trusted friend, family member or therapist can reduce the strain. Professional counselling, if needed, can help provide support to cope up.
5. Avoid Triggers
If there are situations or people that cause you deep stress, limit contact with them. But we need to have plans for dealing with tough times. You should learn to remove your energy from a place that is emotionally draining you.
6. Follow Medical Advice
If you have epilepsy or another illness that causes seizures, follow your doctor’s advice. Try prescribed medicines, if required. Tracking seizures and stress in a journal can help you and your doctor see the patterns.
To Conclude:
Seizures can be caused by stress in some but not all individuals. But it is a potent trigger for people with epilepsy or PNES. Stress management from relaxation, healthy coping habits, and supportive medical care can decrease the risk of stress-related seizures. If you or anybody you know has seizures, you must see a doctor. A doctor, can prescribe the proper treatment plan to avoid seizures and stress.
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