Living with someone who has epilepsy or if you have epilepsy yourself is somewhat difficult, but it is extremely do-able. Though there are bumps along the way, nothing is really impossible as long as one is clearly focused and intent on living a normal and natural way, with or without epilepsy.

The following are some of the issues people with epilepsy usually encounter, as well as some helpful advice to make life as productive as possible. An epilepsy diagnosis has implications in one's life that extend to work, relationships and school. Epilepsy need not be a condition that is debilitating. Managing it is best for one's self and especially for those that are around you.

You should also know what triggers your epilepsy. Believe it or not, one's lifestyle has a tremendous influence on how and when seizures occur. It has been shown that one in about twenty people who has epilepsy is actually sensitive to lights that are flashing. Seizures could also be induced by TV programs, strobe lights and video games. There are also people whose seizures are brought about by excessive drinking of alcohol; drugs that are recreational in nature and from sleep lack. Stress also plays a part in increasing the frequency of seizures.

There are certain situations that are high risk for someone with epilepsy. Some of these activities are scuba diving, mountain climbing, hang-gliding, and so should very well be avoided. However, it is important that life should not be restricted when one has epilepsy. Swimming is possible, however it is vital that someone is knowledgeable of epilepsy and knows the exact thing to do when a seizure does occur. The attendant of the pool must also be informed. When inside the home, showers are actually a lot safer compared to the bath. However, baths should be shallow and that the door to the bathroom must always be unlocked when someone with epilepsy is taking a bath. Guards should also be used in open fires, cookers and radiators. Also, using a microwave is a lot more advisable compared to using cookers.

Also, if you observe that your seizures have caused you to fall a lot more times, using a helmet for protection is extremely advisable. Using alarms that are automatically triggered by such falls is especially important for those people with epilepsy who live alone.

When a seizure does occur, the best way to handle it is by moving any dangerous or lethal objects a good distance from the person who has the seizures. Immediately move the epileptic person if he or she is in a very dangerous place such as on a road or at the top stairs. Be with the person having the seizures until their full recovery.

When a convulsion does occur, make sure that you monitor just how long these seizures last. This is because such prolonged seizures could require immediate medical help.

Also, it is important that nothing be placed inside the mouth of the person having the seizure. There is really no danger of the person swallowing their own tongue, though placing an object inside the person's mouth could damage the teeth. What is necessary is placing a pillow or anything soft under the head of the person having the seizure in order to prevent any injury. Restricting the movements brought about by the convulsions should be avoided as this could hurt yourself or the person. Any clothing that is too tight on the neck should be loosened. This includes necklaces. Once the convulsion has subsided, turn that person to his left and try to remain with that person until they are able to fully recover from the seizure. Nothing should obstruct their breathing. However, if the convulsions are longer than 5 minutes or if the convulsions are repeating themselves, it is best to contact an ambulance.

When driving, a person who has had a seizure must inform the DVLA or Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority. When at work, professions that are barred by the law as not for those who have epilepsy include being a pilot for an aircraft, driver for an ambulance, taxi driver, a seaman, armed service, fireman, and police officer.

All in all, epilepsy is manageable as long as you are prepared with the necessary precautions to prevent it as well as know what to do once the seizures occur.