Seizures & Epilepsy

Sports, Leisure & Activities

January 9, 2020
Epilepsy & Sports

Leisure time is spent with hobbies, projects around the house, or travel. When you have epilepsy, before you engage in these activities, here are things you have to consider:

  • The type and frequency of seizures you have, and how an unexpected seizure might impact your safety or the safety of those around you
  • Avoiding activities that may trigger seizures (for example, video games or nightclubs if your types of seizures are triggered by flashing lights)
  • Minimizing or avoiding high risk sports and recreational activities

Sports and Recreational Activity
Physical activity and recreation are important for maintaining quality of life. Participation in appropriate team and individual sports should be encouraged. Some doctor orders are to be physically active, but also safe and manageable.

Below are sports and activities that are ranked by risk of triggering a seizure.
Low Risk: Golf, Bowling, Baseball, Walking, Yoga, Weight training with machines
Moderate Risk: Basketball, Bicycling, Soccer, Swimming
High Risk: Boxing, Hockey, Rock Climbing, Scuba Diving

Children with Epilepsy

Children with epilepsy participate in fewer team sports than do children without epilepsy, but anticipate equally in individual sports.

It is recommended to start with low-intensity activities, then gradually increasing the intensity of activity if appropriate. Talk with your doctor about which activities are appropriate and best for you.

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1 Comment

  • Reply Chloe January 18, 2021 at 7:22 am

    Maintaining a healthy lifestyle regarding both physical and mental health is the best remedy to cure and prevent all kinds of diseases. It’s nice to see how hard you have tried to achieve it while fighting epilepsy all along. I wish you all the best in 2021.

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