I’m a long-time patient of epilepsy. Growing up, I had frequent complex partial seizures, with no idea of their root cause. It was difficult to try to explain the odd sensations, or why I’d suddenly become completely unresponsive for minutes at a time. I was often frustrated and scared, particularly when it happened in public.
As I grew older, I found myself having greater frequency and longer duration of seizures, and so decided to go to the hospital. After a series of tests and scans, it was determined that I had epileptic seizures and was put on a strict course of medication. For a while, it worked, and I was able to live a fairly normal life.
Unfortunately, life with epilepsy isn’t so simple. On days when my medication isn’t taken, or when my stress levels are high, I’m more prone to having seizures. This can be really difficult, especially when I’m in a public place, or driving a car. I’m also very sensitive to light and sound, and that can cause me to have a seizure.
I regularly go for checkups with my neurologist, and we’ve set up a plan for seizure management that includes medication, diet and lifestyle changes. I’m also learning about different methods of controlling my seizures, such as relaxation, cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness.
Life with epilepsy isn’t easy, but I’m determined to manage it as best I can. I know that I’m not alone in my struggles, and that many people with epilepsy are leading happy, successful lives. With the right treatments and attitude, I’m determined to be one of those people.