What lifestyle modifications should I advise a patient with epilepsy to help manage their condition effectively?

Lifestyle modifications for patients with epilepsy to manage their condition effectively include:

• Ensure adherence to antiseizure medication as prescribed to reduce seizure frequency and risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) ².
• Avoid alcohol and illicit drug misuse, as these are modifiable risk factors for seizures and SUDEP ².
• Implement safety measures during activities such as swimming, bathing, or showering by ensuring appropriate supervision to reduce the risk of accidental drowning ¹,².
• Advise on driving regulations and ensure patients understand and comply with Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) requirements ¹,².
• Encourage regular review of seizure control and discuss the impact of epilepsy on daily functioning, including work, education, and leisure activities, to identify and manage associated difficulties ¹.
• Promote mental health awareness by assessing for symptoms of anxiety, depression, and cognitive problems, and managing these appropriately ¹.
• Advise on bone health, especially for those on long-term antiepileptic drugs like carbamazepine or sodium valproate, by assessing osteoporosis risk and recommending lifestyle and dietary measures including calcium and vitamin D supplementation if appropriate ¹.
• Discuss the importance of night-time supervision or use of monitoring devices for those with seizures during sleep to reduce SUDEP risk ².
• Provide tailored information and support according to individual needs, including involving family or carers and ensuring access to epilepsy specialist nurses for education and support ¹,².