Concerned Daughter

[kristyh]

Good afternoon

My name is Kristy and my mum has epilepsy. She had a brain tumor removed from her front temporal lobe about 22 years ago (when I was three). She was fine for 7 years, then the seizures started. The drs say it is due to the scar tissue in her brain. So for the last 15 years she has been on all kinds of medications which control grand mal seizure but she still has small ones from 4 to 15 per month.

I am interested in what people think about the relationship between stress/anxiety/emotion and seizures? She is a bit of a worry wart and it seems to bring on seizure when she is overloaded with emotion (good or bad) or works herself up.

As nothing seems to work for her, and she seems to be getting worse, Drs have suggested surgery to remove the scar tissues but this is a last resort for our family.

Has anyone got any ideas or experiences on reducing seizures through alternative therapy’s ie relaxation.

Any thoughts or advice would be great.

 

[alivenwell]

For some of us, stress is a huge factor. This is such a tricky condition. If we get upset about a seizure, the stress can kick off another one. And another one...etc.

Maybe she can practice some stress busting techniques. For me, music is a great stress buster. My daily walk or play session with my dog also gives me a fresh perspective. Frankly, when I am busy, I am not thinking of stressful issues.

There are alternative therapies, but for me personally, medications have provided me with excellent control. It's a personal decision.

 

[epileric]

Your mom sounds a bit like me. I tend to get more stressed over things than I should & of course that (and other things) makes me more susceptible to seizures.

There's all sorts of things to do like breathing exercises, meditation, yoga (& similar exercises). I remember when I went to the gym that I not only stressed less & had less seizures but I also saw positive changes in my overall mood, self-esteem & memory.

 

[Meetz1064]

I, too

have problems when I am stressed, especially if I forget my meds, and slip up on my diet...which I use to help control my seizures.

I tend to use classical music, and when I can power walk, I do that, too. Writing is another way to vent for me, but I need some quiet to do that...

 

[dfwtexas]

First, let me say welcome and I think it is great that you are taking an active role to help your mom.
I think your mom would find it helpful to come on to this site. I always feel so much better when I have been on here talking to others that can relate to my feelings, etc.
My dogs do a world of good for me! Also, I have found music can really help me when I am stressing, as well as my faith and praying.
Stress is a huge trigger for most with seizures.
Jenn