Does Fever Trigger Epilepsy?

Does fever trigger epilepsy? It’s an unfortunate reality I’ve come to know all too well. This wasn’t always the case. For most of my life, fever and epilepsy weren’t connected.

But everything changed after undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) for my dystonia on November 22, 2023. While the procedure improved my dystonia significantly, it also introduced new struggles with epilepsy. Since then, even a mild fever has the potential to ignite a chain reaction, leaving me vulnerable and terrified.

The first time I experienced fever-triggered epilepsy was in February 2024, during a bout of Influenza B. My entire body was burning—hot enough, it seemed, to fry an egg on my forehead!

I was vomiting, shivering, and utterly miserable. The virus had made its way into our household through my mom, a secondary school teacher. She contracted it from one of her students, and soon enough, the rest of us—my dad, my little sister, and I—fell like dominoes.

Amid the fever, I began to sense the all-too-familiar aura of an impending epileptic attack. That night was a war zone. I couldn’t sleep, and the pain was overwhelming.

I cried, wishing for a reprieve, questioning how life could be so cruel. Fever and epilepsy are a devastating combination—one that can completely shatter your sense of control.

Before this experience, fever had never triggered my epilepsy. In fact, I once told a friend who experienced fever-related seizures that it wasn’t something I dealt with.

Ironically, after my DBS surgery, everything changed. This new reality has forced me to be extra vigilant about my health, knowing that even a minor fever could spiral into something far worse.

Understanding fever and epilepsy

Fever is a natural response to infection, but for those of us with epilepsy, it can act as a dangerous trigger. When the body’s temperature rises, it can increase neuronal excitability, potentially lowering the seizure threshold.

While not everyone with epilepsy is affected this way, it’s more common in children or individuals with underlying neurological changes—like myself, after DBS.

Knowing that fever can trigger seizures has made prevention a top priority in my life. Yet, when it does happen, I’ve learned some strategies to manage it effectively.

Managing fever-triggered Epilepsy

Living with epilepsy means constantly adapting to new challenges. For me, fever-triggered epilepsy has been a steep learning curve, but I’ve found strategies that work:

• Preventing fevers

Prevention is the first line of defense. I’ve adopted a stricter approach to hygiene, especially during flu season. Regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying updated on vaccinations, such as the flu shot, have become non-negotiable. My family has also become more mindful about keeping illnesses from spreading in our household.

• Quickly reducing fevers

I’ve learned to keep over-the-counter fever reducers like paracetamol and ibuprofen readily available. These medications help bring my temperature down before it can escalate. At the first sign of a fever, I act swiftly to avoid giving the epilepsy a chance to strike.

• Monitoring triggers

Recognizing early warning signs has been crucial. When I feel an aura, I immediately take steps to ensure my safety. This might mean lying down to prevent falls, alerting someone nearby, and practicing calming techniques like deep breathing.

• Hydration and rest

Fever and epilepsy both take a toll on the body. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest is essential to help my body recover and reduce the risk of further complications.

• Creating a support system

Living with epilepsy can feel isolating, but a strong support system makes all the difference. My family has been my rock, providing care and comfort during my most vulnerable moments. Connecting with advocacy groups and others in the epilepsy community has also been incredibly empowering.

Managing epilepsy triggered by fever has taught me invaluable lessons about health, resilience, and the importance of community. I’ve come to appreciate the small victories—the nights when I sleep peacefully, the days when I feel strong enough to take on the world. These moments remind me that while epilepsy is a part of my life, it doesn’t define me.

Fever-triggered epilepsy has reshaped my life in ways I never anticipated, but it has also shown me the depths of my resilience. It’s a journey I wouldn’t wish on anyone, yet it has taught me to appreciate my inner strength and the love and support of those around me. Every challenge brings new lessons, and while I continue to navigate this road, I do so with hope for brighter days ahead.

Do you have fever-triggered epilepsy? Let me know in the comment box below, and share with me what you do to overcome fever-triggered epilepsy.