How to Beat the Heat Living with Epilepsy

“‘Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about.” – John Mayer

What do you think of when you hear the word “summer”?
Vacation, flip-flops, the beach, napping all afternoon in the hammock, fresh squeezed lemonade.

Another word to tie to the word “summer” is heat.

“Too much of a good thing can be taxing.” – Mae West

The warm temperatures of summertime inspire us to pursue outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, swimming, and camping.

Sometimes, summertime temperatures can get too warm. Living with epilepsy, exposure to extreme heat for an extended period of time may be a risk.

Staying cool is important. So what do you do to beat the heat living with epilepsy?

Summer Self-Care Tips Living With Epilepsy:

1. Plan Your Day.

Depending on how hot the weather can be where you are, there are definitely certain times of day that are essential to focus on. Before the sun rises and after it sets you have a few golden hours of cooler weather. Take this time to water your plants, go for a jog, or enjoy a meal outside.

2. Stay hydrated.

If you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Chilled water helps to regulate body temperature and avoid overheating. Infuse water with fruit to add a touch of sweetness or eat foods containing lots of water like watermelon or cucumbers.

3. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.

One of the most invaluable keys in avoiding heat stroke during summertime. Dress in light colors and breathable fabrics, especially on those scorching days. Cotton and linen clothing are suggestables. Dark colored clothing attracts and retains heat thus increasing your risk of heat stroke.

4. Exercise comfortably in a cool or well-ventilated area.

Just because it’s hot out doesn’t mean exercise has to come to a screeching halt. You can adapt to exercising during the summertime and unpacking strategies such as switching to water sports, avoiding the sun when it’s strongest, and exercising in short bursts. Pre-Cooling techniques such as wearing ice packs, and draping yourself in wet towels can also prevent overheating when working out in hot weather.

5. Pause to put your feet up and turn off electronics.

When you’re not feeling well living with epilepsy or resting having had a seizure, you tend to want to spend a majority of time watching television, on your computer, smart phone or tablet. Instead, why not pause and take a break, turn off these devices and allow yourself to cleanse your mind. Step outside for a few moments to inhale the fresh air and soak up sunlight. Ask a loved one to place aromatherapy potpourri in the room which is known to be relaxing and pleasurable, wind chimes, or a small bird feeder outside your window so you can enjoy the delicate tonal sound and the birds that come to say hello. While in this moment, reflect on the countless blessings within and around your life.

6. Embrace cold showers.

At the pinnacle of summer an ice cold shower is one of the best ways to beat the heat. The chilled water effectively brings down your body temperature, removes sweat and when you leave shower water on your skin afterward, it could help keep you chilly through evaporative cooling.

7. Nurture a self-care mindset.

Listen to your body. Do what’s best to avoid a seizure or heat stroke. Listen to what your body is telling you and do not push yourself too hard. Cut yourself some slack. Don’t compare yourself to everyone else. Take care of YOU and have a happy healthy summer!

Do you love summertime but summertime and your seizures just don’t get along?

What are your go-to self-care tips for summer? Share in the comment box below!