Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases. In Turkey, there are approximately 800,000 cases diagnosed with epilepsy, and half of these individuals consist of pediatric patients.
Very different findings such as loss of consciousness caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, involuntary movements that can be seen anywhere in our body, perception of visual or auditory events that do not actually exist can be symptoms of epilepsy.
In cases diagnosed with epilepsy and started on drug treatment, regular living, attention to diet and sleep patterns, and adequate fluid intake are very important in controlling seizures. In recent days, the record-high air temperatures seen in our country cause difficulties in controlling the seizures of our patients diagnosed with epilepsy.
Sleep disorders due to extreme heat, loss of fluid and electrolytes in the body due to excessive sweating, and exposure to intense sunlight can result in an increase in seizures. Not only our children diagnosed with epilepsy but all people should prefer cool environments during these sunny and extremely hot days and increase their fluid intake. Especially during periods when the sun's rays come directly, such as noon, being in shaded and indoor environments is very important for their quality of life.
In epilepsy, drug treatment alone is not enough. Along with regular use of medications, optimizing nutrition and fluid intake, and paying attention to sleep patterns are as effective as medications in seizure control. I wish you healthy days!
