When I Reach My Ceiling, Seizures Begin

My seizures are triggered in various ways. Like most people with epilepsy, we learn our triggers over time. I’ve learned my seizure triggers are lack of sleep, drinking, stress, and missed medication. Sometimes, it could be a combination.

This is why it is important for me to pay attention to my body. Lately, I have been pushing myself, and as a result, I have been having breakthrough seizures. My healthcare provider informed me that my body has a ceiling, and that’s when I have a breakthrough seizure.

Recognizing my body's ceiling

When my doctor mentioned my body had a ceiling it resonated with me. When were in a virtual appointment and I was explaining everything I had going on. After she said that, I related to it.

When I feel dizzy, I lie down to avoid having a seizure. Another example is when I eat too much sugar (which is another topic), I feel drained. The key for me is to pay attention to how I feel, what I am doing, and what I am putting into my body. All these things work together so I can live a healthy life.

Self-care is important

Since there are times that I may be delayed with doing things, I adjust. I understand, and I must be flexible if I have a breakthrough seizure. Self-care is truly important to my everyday routine to reduce any stress I may be under at the time.

I focus heavenly on starting my day right with prayers and worship and ending my day the same way I started it. There are times that I miss my routine, and I feel like my body is off, and when that happens, a seizure occurs.

Getting enough sleep

I cannot stress this enough: sleep is important. Over the years, I have been known to get my rest, partly due to my medication and because I love to sleep. Lack of sleep can play a vital role in having a seizure.

There are times when I have meetings and gatherings to attend, but my body tells me I need to slow down. One time, many years ago, I went out with my cousin, and I slept about three hours the next day. We were on the go! Then, we were heading out again, and my body said, “Nope!” I had a seizure and ended up in the hospital.

Finding balance

Having a ceiling isn’t a bad thing! It’s a good thing. For me, I must pay attention to my body and when a seizure may or may not come. I must check in and see how I am feeling.

There are times that I push myself, and there are times that I choose to sit on the sofa, watch TV, and do my work. I know I must adjust or be able to adjust.

I used to feel like I was letting myself down, but that’s a thing of the past. Now, I look at it like a to-do list.

I’m one person accomplishing my goals one day at a time. I’m very thankful.