Daily Struggles With Seizures: A Week of Challenges
I’m a 34-year-old woman from South Africa, and I live with epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and borderline personality disorder. For the past week, I have experienced seizures that occur at the same time each day. These episodes leave me struggling with communication, memory retention, and balance, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities, such as reading, among many others. Lately, I’ve been dealing with increased stress and trauma in my life, which may be contributing to my current condition.
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 5:20:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are going through a particularly challenging time with your health conditions, particularly the increased frequency of your seizures, which can undoubtedly impact your quality of life. It's important to recognize that stress and trauma can indeed influence epilepsy, and managing your mental health is just as crucial as addressing your physical symptoms.
Explanation
Seizures that occur consistently at the same time each day may indicate a pattern or trigger that could be linked to changes in your routine, stress levels, or even medication adherence. The symptoms you mentioned, like communication difficulties, memory issues, and balance problems, are not uncommon following a seizure. Additionally, your mental health conditions, including borderline personality disorder, may contribute to heightened stress, making the management of both your mental and physical health essential.
Next Steps
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Track Your Seizures: Keep a detailed log of when your seizures occur, their duration, and any potential triggers (e.g., stress levels, sleep patterns). This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider when discussing treatment options.
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Stress Management Techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga. These can help reduce overall stress levels, which may, in turn, help manage your epilepsy.
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Prioritize Sleep: Aim for consistent, quality sleep, as poor sleep can exacerbate seizures. Establish a calming bedtime routine and ensure your sleeping environment is conducive to rest.
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Communicate with Your Support System: Openly discuss your challenges with trusted friends or family members, as social support can be beneficial for managing both mental health and seizure frequency.
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Review Medications: If your seizures are increasing in frequency, consider discussing your current medication regimen with your healthcare provider at your next appointment, as adjustments may be necessary.
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Engagement in Therapy: If you're not already, consider therapy as a way to work through the trauma and stress, which can also help with the emotional aspects of living with chronic conditions.
Please remember, while these steps can be supportive, they do not replace professional medical advice tailored to your specific medical history and needs. If you find your seizures are increasingly disruptive or concerning, seeking formal help is crucial. Let me know if you need further assistance or support!
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