- 1). Know your triggers. Every epileptic has a trigger or set of triggers which will spark a seizure. It can be lack of sleep, flashing lights or high-stress situations. Knowing what your triggers are not only helps you avoid them, but also helps you devise a plan of action to stop your seizure as it begins. Each trigger may require a different plan to help stop it, which is why it is important to know what your triggers are.
- 2). Know your warning signs. Just as each epileptic has a trigger, there may also be a warning sign right before a seizure is about to take place. Some experience an aura, or a feeling in their head that occurs prior to seizing. Others, like those with Juvenile Myoclonic, may experience myoclonic twitches which become progressively worse until a grand mal seizure occurs. Knowing your warning signs can help you use the plan you have devised to stop your seizure.
- 3). Take your medication. Many epileptics are placed on multiple medications, some of which are effective for stopping a seizure at its onset depending on the type of seizures you suffer from. One such medication, Klonopin, is a type of valium, and when taken at the start of a seizure will take the stress out of the seizure. Since stress is a trigger for many epileptics, removing the stress from a seizure as it begins helps stop it before it gets worse.
- 4). Get a tranquilizer injection. Some patients who suffer from acute seizures have had success when injected with drugs such as lorazepam and diazepam. These are often injected by a paramedic shortly after a seizure has begun and have proven effective at stopping the seizure before arriving to the hospital.
- 5). Use relaxation techniques. When you notice a trigger has sparked a warning sign, use a relaxation technique such as deep breathing with your eyes closed, or sitting in a dark room with no distractions or noise. Focus on your breathing and staying calm rather than the seizure you fear is taking place or about to take place; this will only cause you stress and increase the chances of a full-blown seizure occurring.
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