Epilepsy is a seizure disorder triggered by uncontrolled electrical activity between nerve cells or neurons inside your brain. If you have this disorder, you may think that you need to avoid or limit participation in regular exercise. With precautions in place, however, most people with epilepsy can safely work out in a gym or other exercise setting.
Epilepsy
A series of ordered electrical signals that pass between groups of neurons control normal function in your brain. When epileptic seizures occur, this organized communication system gets disrupted. Depending on the location and severity of your seizures, this disruption can alter various functions in your body, including your thoughts, state of consciousness, ability to move normally, behavior and body sensations. Some individuals with epilepsy can detect signs of oncoming seizures, whereas others experience seizures that occur rapidly and without any prior signs or warnings.
Working Out
Exercise rarely triggers seizures in individuals with epilepsy, according to Dr. Nathan B. Fountain of the University of Virginia School of Medicine. As many as 10 percent of people with the disorder may have some risks for exercise-related seizures, however. If you have epilepsy and want to work out in a gym, begin your program slowly while under some form of medical supervision. During the first weeks or months of your routine, you can gauge exercise's effects on your condition and make any necessary adjustments. Choose exercises that minimize your risk of injury. For instance, use weight machines rather than free weights and low stationary bikes rather than treadmills.
Exercise Benefits
Being physically fit can help lower the overall number of seizures you experience. Exercise can also trigger immediate changes in your brain's electrical output that lower your risks for seizures while you work out. In addition, participation in regular exercise can reduce the severity of several health problems that often occur in association with epilepsy, including fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances and muscle pain.
Considerations
Most individuals who have exercise-related seizures experience problems within a three-hour period after their exercise session ends, Better Health Channel notes. If you have known epilepsy triggers, avoid them before, during and after physical activity. Also avoid overexerting yourself or engaging in exercises that exceed your current physical capabilities. If you take seizure medications, maintain your normal dosing schedule at all times. Consult your doctor before you begin any exercise program so he can assess your epilepsy-related health risks.
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