Have you ever noticed a pattern between your epilepsy and hot weather? One survey found that many people with epilepsy notice a change in seizure activity during warm weather.
If you have heat-induced seizures, speak with your doctor for personalized advice on how to manage this issue.
In this article, we’ll look at why heat may be linked to seizures, as well as general precautions anyone can take to stay safe in the heat.
Can heat cause seizures?
Speak with your doctor about weather conditions, epilepsy and how to manage possible risks.
At present, scientists do not know for sure whether hot weather alone triggers seizures. There are some studies suggesting that weather patterns (humidity, temperatures, barometric pressure, seasonal changes) may influence seizure frequency, but this is inconsistent and variable across populations.
It could be that other factors related to warm weather are the reason some people notice they have more seizures when it is hot. These include:
- Severe dehydration, sweating and salt
When the weather is warm, you sweat out water to keep cool. Becoming severely dehydrated may change the balance of electrolytes (chemicals like sodium) in your brain and this may be a seizure trigger for some people.
- Changes in temperature
Many scientific studies have found that there could be a link between changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure and seizures. It’s not clear what might be the cause of this apparent relationship.
If you’ve noticed you have more seizures during warm weather, speak with your doctor.
Keeping safe in the heat
If you notice you seem to experience heat-induced seizures when it is hot outdoors, speak with your doctor about managing the risks. They can work with you to plan your days so you can reduce possible risks.
As well as speaking to your physician, it’s also a good idea to follow the CDC’s general recommendations about staying safe in the heat:
- Keep a bottle of water with you
Keeping hydrated when it is hot is sensible for anyone. When you know you are going to be in the heat, always bring along a big bottle of water to keep hydrated.
- Reduce outdoor activities
Limit your outdoor activities to when it’s coolest and avoid exercise when it’s hot.
- Stay in the shade when possible
When you are at picnics, barbecues or anywhere outdoors, try to sit in the shade to avoid heat exposure. Always wear sun cream.
- Wear appropriate clothing
Choose loose-fitting, lightweight and light colored clothing. Wear a hat when outdoors.
- Stay informed
Follow news about the weather and check the forecast before going out for the day.
Enjoying the warm weather
Speak with your doctor about how you can prepare for high temperatures and other weather conditions if you have epilepsy.
For many people, summer means lazy days, barbecues with friends, and relaxing outdoors. And while there is a possible link between epilepsy and hot weather, your physician will be able to tell you about simple precautions you can take to enjoy those summer days.
