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Reducing Your Risk of Epilepsy

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Reducing Your Risk of Epilepsy

There are steps that can lower the risk of epilepsy.

  • Prevent seizures that happen from head injuries by:
    • Wearing seat belts
    • Wearing helmets when using things like bicycles, skateboards, and skis
    • Putting children in car seats
  • A person who thinks they have had a seizure should get medical help right away.
  • Get prenatal care to help prevent brain damage to a growing fetus:
  • Treat high fevers (especially in kids) with medicine
  • Take steps to prevent or control health problems, such as:
    • High blood pressure
    • Heart disease
    • Liver disease
    • Kidney disease
    • Infections
    • Any health problem that may affect or injure the brain

References

  • Epilepsy in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/condition/epilepsy-in-adults. Accessed April 8, 2022.
  • Epilepsy in children. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/condition/epilepsy-in-children. Accessed April 8, 2022.
  • Epilepsy information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Epilepsy-Information-Page. Accessed April 8, 2022.
  • Seizure disorders. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic-disorders/seizure-disorders/seizure-disorders. Accessed April 8, 2022.

Contributors

  • Rimas Lukas, MD
Last Updated:
2022-03-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.