Live Well with Epilepsy

Suggestions of how you can live well with Epilepsy

Control of Epilepsy Seizures

Three of the most important goals in your life when living with Epilepsy and Seizures are:

1.  Keeping the seizures under control

2.  Having the minimal amount of side effects possible

3.  To be able to live a full life and the ability to cope with your condition the best way you can.

Don’t these three goals sound like the life you would love to have?  And here is the good news - it is possible!!

We all know about the medications and other treatments available, but we must do our part as well.  Below are a few things that may affect your life, and tips on how you can make it more livable.

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Knowing what your Triggers are, is a very important key.  Your lifestyle can greatly influence your seizures.  It is not necessarily the fault of your medication that more seizures are happening at a given time.  These seizure Triggers can be different for everyone.  Know how to recognize what yours are and learn to keep them under control.  (It is like going on a diet, taking the diet pill, but never doing that exercise, eating all the wrong things and expecting the medication to do it's thing.  I wonder what would happen if we had done our part as well?  This is why the Triggers are important as well.  Drugs alone can not do it.  We want to be seizure free, we want to have no side effects, then let's do everything we can to get reach  that goal.  Just imagine how happy you would be on achieving this!  http://www.2betrhealth.com/what-Triggers-Epilepsy-Seizures.html This page also has a link to download a tool you can use to help you keep track of, and record, your seizures day by day. 

Don’t let a stigma worry you. It is not your fault, and it is possible that sometimes a thoughtless comment was not meant for you, but you could possibly be extra sensitive at time. Just remember that a thoughtless remark made is just that- a remark made without thought by another person.   And generally speaking it may not even be a person you know or in fact who knows you, the person on the other side of the street.  They could be reacting to what their partner said to them at the time and happened to look your way.  Not meant for you at all!!  It is their problem not yours, you are not going to let this upset you. Just let it flow past. Keep smiling and being positive.

Driving or not driving a vehicle, either by your own choice or the choice of others, can be a very delicate subject especially when it comes to getting to work or to a doctors appointment.  It is surprising though how often others come to the rescue and there may be other means of transportation available.  Think of the money you will save.  Everything has its good side.   Why risk your life as well as that of others.  http://www.epilepsy.org.uk/info/driving.html

Epilepsy in the workplace at first glance may look to be a real hassle and problem. But be honest with your employer and co-workers and you will stand a better chance of earning respect from them. Yes, you may have to take a different job or by just making some adjustment to your work area. A new project work area can be not only a challenge but also enhance your skills.  Learning something new you may think of as difficult, but with the proper attitude it can really be fun.  Meeting different people, learning new skills and becoming a leader in your field.  Be proud of yourself for a job well done. Think of many others out there who don’t have the opportunity of having any job at all.  You are one of the fortunate ones.

Keeping tabs on your seizure activity. The importance of tracking your seizures by means of a daily Diary cannot be stressed enough.  This will help not only yourself but also your Doctor find out in what areas in your daily life you need improvement. Your Diary and your Trigger List work together and are both very important in helping control your seizures.  What happens when you track you seizures? (example).  You now find out that you cannot stay out in the sun too long, so you  will just go for that walk in the evening. A win win situation has just been made.  You did not have to have another medication added, that was possibly not the problem, but it was because you were spending too much of your time in the sun. What about different foods you have been eating?  Your sleeping pattern? Once you know all these little tips and adhere to them you may find that your seizures are possibly decreasing.  After all, it may not be the fault of your current Medication at all that you are now having these new breakthrough seizures but may be caused by a Trigger, or something else that is happening in your life. Adding more Medications or changing to a different medication would only bring you new side effects until your body got used to them. This added stress is something you don't want.  Use this knowledge to your advantage.  Take control of your life the easy way!!

Keep your daily records and check out your Triggers!!. http://www.2betrhealth.com/what-Triggers-Epilepsy-Seizures.html

Keeping a Diary of your seizure activity is just like keeping your personal diary.  This is meant to keep track also of all the good days and not just the bad.  Using your trigger list, which we can provide, as a guide, plus adding your own personal Triggers can be a big help.  Also keeping each month's records for some time prior to seeing your Dr. or Neurologist can be a very useful tool as you may find that your seizures increased immensely during certain seasons.  Take all these records with you to your next visit with your doctor.  By sharing this detailed information with your doctor, it will help him gain a much deeper insight to what is going on.  It will help him answer questions you may have but not always think about while in his office. 

Here is a link to a tool you may find of assistance as it will help empower you with all kinds of information and details you may need  

http://www.neomedsoft.com

Gain deeper insight into your seizures and triggers

Share that detailed information with your doctor

Improve your treatment and long–term care

 Empower yourself with more information

Help your doctor find the right seizure treatment

Improve seizure control

Epilepsy and Sports.  Appreciate that there may be some sports that you need to be extra cautious about being involved in, or that you would may to have someone else present with you. But generally speaking with the proper equipment and forethought there is no reason that you should be holding back from having the fun you once had. Keeping fit is good for the brain.  It helps keep your weight under control and the loss of weight can mean a new shopping trip for more clothes.  Give yourself a new makeover and feel good about yourself.  Doing this can bring your self esteem level up. And who doesn't like that idea.

Remember though that common sense plays a major role in any activities and it would probably not be a good idea to participate in some sports if you should not be feeling well. 

Keeping positive goals and being able to accept the fact that yes you do have Epilepsy even though it is not your fault.  Set your goals like you would otherwise but take them just a step at a time.  Setting achievable goals can help rebuild your self esteem and make you feel really good.  Should you have had a goal to be a famous singer some day, why can’t you continue with it?  If you are afraid of being on stage there is no reason why you can’t make CDs and become famous that way. Everyone has a special skill they are good in.  Maybe you are a poet, or a painter.  Take that theme and run with it.  Others will be proud of you and appreciate your art work as well. There is always a way should you want to find it.  You don’t want to let the psychological aspect of your Epilepsy affect you. This is where depression, anxiety, and other problems will come into play. By accepting the fact that it is not your fault, and that it is who you are, you will become happy within yourself.  You are proud of who you are, of what you do, and of all your friends you have.  This feeling of happiness shows through and others will pick it up immediately and even more true friends come out of the woodwork. 

You all know that some of the side effects of the Medication you need to take may affect some mood changes.  Learn how to get these under control by speaking with your Doctor.  You don’t have to live like this.  Possibly he/she can suggest some things you can to do to minimize these changes which that can be of great help for you.  Take advantage of these suggestions.  Once you have accepted that you are who you are, and the fact that you have Epilepsy is not your fault, these mood changes will begin to disappear.  Your whole attitude changes and you will become a happier person.

Anyone can suffer from depression but it can often be a side effect of some medications.  Be wise about choosing the correct medication for your condition. Don’t try to diagnose yourself, and don’t try to prescribe your own medication as this can cause more harm than good. Once you find out why you are depressed,  and what caused this condition to occur, you can begin to take the steps to correct it.  Accepting the fact that you have Epilepsy and that there are a lot of others out there in the same situation, or worse off by far than yourself, can help you find ways to cope.  Why not find a partner and take a daily walk or take up a new craft or hobby.  Do not under any circumstances stay in that box you have built for yourself.  Get out and do something, meet others and enjoy life.  Life is too short to not enjoy what is left to enjoy.  

It is possible though that the depression could have been, and quite often is, there before the Epilepsy was diagnosed. http://www.epilepsynl.com/lwedepression.html

What about memory loss? This is one of the main topics of conversation among people who suffer with from Epilepsy.  This happens especially if you have had seizures for a long period of time and been on medication just as long.  There are many ways of coping with this as well.  Don’t panic, that is the last thing you want to do. Many with Epilepsy get in a panic situation because they can not think of a word when needed, yet it is right on the tip of their tongue.  Take a little time, forget about the subject for a moment and do something entirely different.  That word will come to you just like that.  You are sitting at your computer, you know what you want to say but you can't think of that one word to describe it.  Get up from the computer, take a walk around the house or have a glass of water.  Then come back and it couldn't be clearer, it is right there in front of you.  Never fear, memory doesn't get clearer with aging either and who can say they are getting younger each and every day.  Once again it is not your fault.  Take time to make little notes and pin them up where they will be best used and easy to reach.  No one will know the difference when they see you going to the fridge.  You may have gone to look up a word and at the same time you can get yourself something to drink.  Problem solved, and no one will question it.

For more information contact brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Health and Wellness - Nutrition

What is Health & Wellness?

It is what we desire for ourselves, and the people we love. But do you know what is to be healthy? To be well?

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Question: If you don't think you've achieved your optimum health level yet, how will you know when you have achieved it?

Answer: Find concepts that have helped others achieve healthier lives. Then use those ideas to reach and maintain your own optimum lifestyle.

Here are some of these concepts, all backed by mainstream research. This information is trustworthy: it uses current research and information and is easy to understand. Health & Wellness are certainly within the reach of anyone who really wants to achieve it. These ideas include a practical definition of Health and Wellness, a basic knowledge of what your body needs, and a short biology lesson. Also the prevention of degenerative diseases is touched on, and the possible need for nutritional supplementation is reviewed.

For most people, Health and Wellness is a physical AND mental state. It is the overall feeling of fitness: of having all your body systems performing the way they are meant to: without pain or discomfort: and a desire deep within you to conquer your own world! To have lots of energy and confidence!

Here is a very quick and informal Biology lesson.  Some of the major nutrients that your body requires are proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. In order to function efficiently, these are required on a regular basis and in the specific amounts. Nutrients are digested and absorbed through the digestive wall of your stomach and intestines, and then transported via your blood stream as sugar to the individual cells in your body. Your cells then use them to maintain and rebuild body tissue. They also perform all the necessary body functions.

As well as that they are needed to activate, regulate, and control, many of the metabolic functions that take place in your body. One of these important functions is to maintain your body's natural defense system: the immune system. This is your GREATEST ALLY against disease! This defense system helps your body resist infection and is very dependent on good nutrition! Unless you eat a variety of foods, you may not be getting all the nutrients you need. Also the need for some nutrients can be increased or modified when the body is stressed: i.e. surgery, infections, illnesses, etc.

Under normal conditions, each cell in your body develops in a very orderly fashion. Your body is made up of trillions of cells and these make up your systems. Very simply, when old cells wear out, new cells replace them. Your body totally depends on what you feed it. No two people require the same amount of energy though they might be the same size, sex, and age. Instead there is a wide range of energy "intakes" that can be considered adequate.

If you have kept abreast of environmental information in the last few years, you would be somewhat concerned with the knowledge that our air and water pollution has increased dramatically. That the use of pesticides and antibiotics has increased. Our fast-paced lifestyles require prepared (over-processed foods) that have little or no nutritional value. Busy lives are stress-filled and leave little room for relaxation. The list can go on ...these tax your immune system tremendously.

Nutrition is a very important part of your everyday decision process. Good nutrition will provide your body with the energy, and strength, and the building blocks it needs, as well as the ability to heal and fight off infections and diseases. Poor nutrition causes fatigue, weight gain, or loss, and subsequently you are unable to give your system all it needs to remain healthy. It allows the degenerative process to get a foothold. There are well over 30 nutrients that your body needs every day. If you can't get all the required nutrients through diet, nutritional supplements may be needed to support your body against these chronic (degenerative) diseases that are just waiting to attack your cells.

Some of the essential components for maintaining good health are Vitamins, Minerals, Essential Fatty Acids, Amino Acids, Calcium and Fiber. These are all essential for protecting your cells and providing the nutrients needed for your body to function at its optimum level. In addition to the essential vitamins and minerals other elements that are called "optimizers" may be used to enhance and supplement individual needs. When you provide your body with nutrients at optimal levels, the body is then able to function at a high level.

In this day of biochemical research when we are now able to determine what is happening in every part of every cell, the very essence of degenerative diseases is coming to light. Oxygen that is so necessary for life has a dark side to it: oxidative stress. You could end up with one or more of these degenerative diseases. It is a well-known scientific fact that degenerative diseases are preventable. The prevention of the progressive discomfort and end stages of many of these diseases makes it well worth- while for you to consider some preventable measures now.

The safest way to start your journey of PREVENTION is to work with a low fat, low carbohydrate, high fiber diet and include a moderate exercise program. AS ALWAYS, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR FOR APPROVAL. You will also, most probably, want to find a very effective, complete, balanced nutritional supplement program to supply the missing, but necessary dietary support.  Your greatest defense against disease is your own healthy body. Common sense says that you need a strong, healthy immune system that will maintain and protect your health.

There is a strong connection between your body and your mind.  Many people are afraid of pursuing this idea to any degree. They feel that if you can't see it, it doesn't exist. However, this connection is very real. For your own wellbeing, you would do well to at least acknowledge it and use it to some degree. For example, it is a well-known fact that if you act enthusiastically even when you don't feel it, you WILL eventually FEEL it! So instead of focusing on losing weight, focus on becoming healthier. See yourself as having loads of energy: of doing a specific sport or activity that you wouldn't normally think you could do. Let your mind get you started on a healthier and more enjoyable lifestyle.

To develop and maintain a life-long lean body it is essential to develop a winning attitude. Realize that this could mean changing some unhealthy habits and counterproductive thoughts.  The importance of nutrition in staying active and energetic is now widely accepted. Nutrition is about what you eat and how this food affects your body and health. Health happens when your body is fed optimally and provides you with energy and enthusiasm. And the best way to get achieve this is through a balanced diet. You want to do everything possibly can do to enhance the quality of your life.

This is not alternative medicine. This concept is well supported by research from respected mainstream medical and nutritional journals. You need to look at your present nutritional level to see if it meets your needs. (Does it give you the energy you require? Are you always ready to do those things which you really love doing?) If it doesn't meet your needs, then start to look at what you eat because it's the only way for "energy" to enter your body.

If you take an active part in your health prevention today, it will repay you handsomely later on. And that "pay back time" doesn't have to be far, far down the road. It can be a little as next month or two months from the start. For most people it averages between three to four months: then they really have noticeable changes. Our bodies are all different, and they all require different levels of nutrition to create the necessary energy. BUT it does need some basics.

Once you understand this whole concept, it won't be difficult to look at degenerative diseases in a very different and encouraging light. LIFE can be whatever you choose to make it.

For more information contact brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Grand Mal Seizures

A Seizure Cycle or One Complete Fog

What used to be a typical week in my life living with Epilepsy by Julie Hope

Everything in this world has its up’s and downs and so did my Epilepsy Grand Mal Seizures.  With the help of witnesses I will do my best to describe it here for you.  I am not going to attempt to quote any dates, as those are all a blur, they just happened and that period of my life is now gone.

Even though, as I now know, I had every type of seizure possible but the basic pattern remained the same. The other seizures just fit nicely where they could.  For a lot of years the main seizure was a grand mal for the most part just before waking in the morning.  As these were so frequent and took over my whole life and being, the other seizures we thought were just signs or possible warnings of one about to come.  Little did we know they were in fact a separate type of seizure?

-      For two or three days before a grand mal seizure, it was what I called my hyper period.  I just had to get everything done in short order and was found trying to multi-task everything I laid my hands on.  It was almost as if that little voice outside me was ‘Julie you best get everything done you want now, as you will be out of commission for the next few days’.  Near the end of that three day period even the speech would get quicker and quicker until the very end when there would be 3-4 subjects injected all in one sentence.  This of course made perfect sense to me but not to the other person.  Why did it make perfect sense to me?  I was still in a hurry to get it all done and it was as if the mind was now going at hurricane rate.

-      As the speech gets faster, there was a short period of being ‘giddy’.  I am not sure why this is, possibly because I wanted to be happy, maybe I thought it was funny that the other person was looking at me so strange, or maybe it was once again the brain in hurry up speed got a laugh out of moving so fast.  It would be during this time when there would be other types of seizures slip in as well.  With everything a total blur, it didn’t bother me; it was almost as if I were in ‘la la land’ or somewhere on another planet by now. A total fog!!

-      Usually by the time the ‘giddy’ period and other seizures started to come, should my husband be there at the time, this was when he knew it time to get me to bed.  At least there I would be safe, and all he had to do was, wait.  This part I have no recollection of at all during these seizures.  My hubby would tell me after he knew I was or wasn’t going to have one depending on my sleep routine.  Should I fall asleep peacefully, things were usually ok.  If I squirmed around continuously, and eventually calmed down in a more relaxed fetal position, tonight was the night.  It was always a sure thing also, should I sleep with one arm above my head. 

-      The Grand Mal would hit just before sunrise.  It would be total unconsciousness, with massive throwing around of my arms and legs.  My husband sometimes joked about it ‘if I were in a boxing ring I could have taken on the worlds champion at that time’.  I guess he has got hit a few times and knows the blow.  This is where the sore muscles come in after and possibly one reason for the awful migraine/headaches afterwards.  Immediately following the seizure it is best to have all noise turned down and the room made as dark as possible, give me a blanket (which I usually threw over my head maybe as a sense of protection) and just leave me be.  The rest will take care of itself.

 -       Now comes the recovery period.  There may be cuts, for sure a swollen tongue or bit lip, sore muscles were a given, migraine and possible vomiting were a for sure thing.  I would not be aware of where I was, what just happened, or even who I was much less who you were.   Very gradually I would come back to what was normal for me, but that took another couple days if not more.  It was one big chore to remember why I had just gone to the kitchen, or had a load of clothes in my hands and what was I going to do with them.  One way of trying to figure it out was to shake my head as if only I could get all those cob-webs out of there things would look more familiar. 

-      Gradually I arrived back at what was normal for me, and that is a time you don’t want to experience.  It was not a long period, possibly only a day but that was enough.  The cob-webs had partially gone, it still felt like my head was full of cotton balls, but after living on another planet looking down on earth, I shouldn’t be complaining.  During this period is when depression had time to slip in.  Why?  The mind is now just a little clearer and you being thinking all kinds of things that, at the time are so real to you.  ‘Why doesn’t anyone listen to me?’  ‘I know I can’t drive but I sure would like to’, ‘I use to hold down a good job, these people must sure be stupid not to recognize all the great skills I have.  And the list goes on and on. 

 This period of the Seizure Cycle only lasted a day or so where rock-bottom was hit and the cycle would begin all over.  All this time was in held in some rate of fog.  Some days the fog was just a little thicker than others. 

 A normal foggy day outside you have no control over.  This fog there was something I could do and we did it.  Finally one day for some unknown reason, perhaps it was the drug change, I went into remission.  No more seizures BUT I was still a walking ghost.  I would not be able to tell you my name if you asked, I knew my hubby had some connection to me but do not ask me his name either as I would have no answer to give but a either a fake smile or a nod.  It was almost like I was in the biggest hangover possible.  What was happening and no seizures we were all happy, but was this the way we were to be expected to live out the rest of our lives.  No feelings, no worries, the way it would feel when you are just going under anesthesia.  The feeling of one foot on earth the other on some other planet.

 It is no wonder as by this time I was now on a whole ‘shoe box full of drugs’.  Every kind shape and color you could think of I had it.  Keeping track of the time to take and which ones was something that I did not do well.  The short term memory was gone completely, now what causes all this?  It could be and is the seizures yes, but what about all the Anti-Epilepsy Drugs. 

My daughter also experienced Grand Mal Seizures for several days.  After learning about the herbs etc. that trigger seizures and consulting her doctor, he put her on a new timed released medication and her life is now normal.   We are so grateful!!

For more information contact brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Seizure First Aid & Symptoms

SEIZURE FIRST AID

People who have Epileptic seizures, and children with high fevers, mostly do not need medical care. If you see someone having a convulsive seizure without other problems, do "First Aid for Seizures" listed below.

This describes the simple, common sense steps to take to seek first aid when responding to a person having a seizure. First-aid isn't complicated, but it involves a sequence of actions and some detailed knowledge.

Contrary to popular belief, a person having a seizure is incapable of swallowing their tongue so you can breathe easy in the knowledge that you do not have to stick your fingers into the mouth of someone in this condition.

The Goals of first aid are to:

 - prevent injury,
 - maintain an open airway, turn head to the side - do not place anything in mouth
 - provide reassurance to the patient and bystanders

And to recognize an emergency condition, and know when to call for help.


Guidelines for helping someone who is having a seizure:

1.  Help the person lie down as soon as possible.

2.  Look for a medical alert bracelet, pendant, or wallet card.

3.  If a medical alert ID, or other documentation indicating that the person has Epilepsy can not be located, call an Ambulance.

4.  If the person is pregnant or diabetic, call an Ambulance.

5. Turn the person onto one side and put a soft object (e.g., pillow, sweater, jacket) under their head.  Lying on the side allows secretions to drain from the mouth; prevents the inhalation of secretions; and allows the tongue to fall forward, keeping the airway open. Do NOT try to hold the tongue.

6. Do NOT put anything into the person’s mouth.
    During the initial phase of a generalized tonic-clonic seizure, the jaw muscles tighten and it is impossible to open the mouth. Forcing an object into the mouth can damage the jaw or teeth.

7. Loosen ties and collars.

8. Remove harmful objects from the immediate area.

9.  Do NOT try to move the person unless they are in danger. Do not attempt to bring them round

10. Do NOT restrain the person in any way.

      Restraining while the person is rigid or having too many convulsions may cause broken bones and bruising.

      Restraining someone having a complex partial seizure may provoke him or her into aggressive behavior.

      Speaking in a quiet voice, act as if having a normal conversation.

11.Remain with the person until they are completely aware of who they are and their environment, stay calm, do not act in a way that could frighten them, such as making abrupt movements or shouting at them
 
12.Do not give the person anything to eat or drink until they are fully recovered.

A person experiencing a generalized TONIC-CLONIC or a SIMPLE PARTIAL SEIZURE that has become convulsive requires first aid.

Call an ambulance if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, if you know it is the person’s first seizure, if one seizure follows another without the person regaining consciousness, if the person is seriously injured, or if you believe the person needs urgent medical attention.

Tonic-Clonic Seizures

The person loses consciousness; the body stiffens, and then falls to the ground. This is followed by jerking movements. A blue tinge around the mouth is likely. This is due to irregular breathing. Loss of bladder and/or bowel control may occur. After a minute or two the jerking movements should stop and consciousness may slowly return.

Simple Partial Seizures

Twitching, numbness, sweating, dizziness or nausea; disturbances to hearing, vision, smell or taste; a strong sense of deja vu.

Absence Seizures

The person may appear to be daydreaming or switching off. They are momentarily unconscious and totally unaware of what is happening around them.

First aid is not necessary for someone having an ABSENCE SEIZURE.

They experience a temporary lapse in alertness and need monitoring to ensure their safety.

Complex Partial Seizures

Plucking at clothes, smacking lips, swallowing repeatedly or wandering around are symptoms. The person is not aware of their surroundings or of what they are doing.

Someone having a COMPLEX PARTIAL SEIZURE may wander or look confused but does not require first aid. It is helpful to calmly and gently guide the person away from harmful objects or situations. Do not attempt to restrain the person. Stay with the person until recovery is complete.


It will help if you write down everything that happened before, during, and after the seizure, as it is very seldom that the doctor gets to see the person actually in one.

If you were with the person before the seizure, noting what they did or said, or any skin changes that occurred, or particular eye movements, is very important.  Were they acting strange, were the pupils enlarged, were they out in the heat. 

Many things that happened just before could have brought the seizure on.  Was this seizure different than others you are used to this person having?  If so, how did it differ? Was there a different 'warning' or "aura"? Did it take longer to come out of the seizure this time, than others? 

These are just a few of the things that can be very important information for your doctor.

Seizure Triggers

Seizure Triggers

To learn, to understand, and to develop a plan on how to deal with your Triggers which may bring on seizures is a step in the right direction.  Keeping track of them and sharing this information with family and friends can be a positive experience. 

Their understanding of the Triggers which may bring on a seizure for you can allow them to be part of the overall plan to keep you seizure free.

And by making your friends and family aware of your Triggers you won't feel obligated or discriminated against when you have to reject something they want you to do. They will realize that the refusal of a ‘grapefruit drink’ or not being able to accompany them to a concert, which could be noisy and busy, is no reflection on your wish not to be compliant  and will then not make a big deal out of it.  When you share the information with them that some of these issues are what can trigger a seizure for you they can then assist you by making sure that your tolerance level is met when partaking in certain activities

We are all learning daily and so our understanding of seizure triggers increases.

Causes and Effects

There is sometimes a ‘cause’ for Epilepsy, and then there are ‘triggers’ which can affect a seizure.  These two can sometimes be difficult to separate in your mind.  A cause can be because of a difficult birth, a severe head injury at some time in your life, a stroke (this can be a cause because during a stroke the brain does not receive the required oxygen it needs), meningitis or a tumor in the brain. And then there are also many times when the actual cause is just not known.  These types of seizures are generally known as Idiopathic Seizures.

What is a Trigger?

A trigger is something that when it is provoked it may cause a seizure in the person who has Epilepsy.  Not everyone’s trigger is the same and not every seizure is the same.  It all depends on your seizure threshold.   Whatever your threshold is at the present moment, it may only take one small thing such as the brushing of your teeth (especially with an electric toothbrush) to trigger that seizure.  At other times it may take many of these triggers combined before a seizure occurs.  It is worthwhile to note too, that not all Seizures need something to “Trigger” them.  It seems sometimes that they just happen ……… seemingly out of nowhere.

How do we know what our Triggers are?

To best way to be able to recognize and understand what our triggers are, and how they can affect seizure activity, is to keep a day to day Diary to show you what is going on in your life.  In that diary you would keep track of places you have been to, what foods were eaten that day by you or anything else consumed that may have been out of the ordinary, as well keeping records of each seizure experienced. Some suggestions for headings that may be useful are:

.  The time of day that the seizure took place

.  What you were doing and where you were when the seizure occurred

.  What type of seizure it was

.  And how you reacted

. If there was anyone with you (as they may help you by noticing for instance what side or part of your body convulsed)

.How long did the actual Seizure last? Noting that the timing starts from when the person starts shaking and then stops, and when the gasp for air takes place. (This is for a Grand Mal Seizure).

.  Did you fall sleep afterwards and did you suffer from any after effects. 

.  Did you need any medical attention and how was that handled.

. Was there anything in your Diary specifically about this day that could have been the Trigger for this seizure

Other ways of keeping track of your Triggers 

You can easily keep track of all your Triggers  and Seizures in a simple file at home, make up one that you can relate to, or you may like to download an excellent system for "Tracking Seizures and Keeping Records" available  from the following website - http://www.nevdgp.org.au/info/epilepsyf/info/seizureRecord.html  You can use this record system as a template and add your own ideas. Keep this record updated or ask a family member or friend to help keep accurate entries as this record can be a valuable tool for your Doctors to chart your progress, and will assist them in knowing where to make medication adjustments or other changes if necessary.

Alternatively you can follow the link http://www.epilepsynse.org.uk/pages/info/leaflets/page.cfm  and find other record keeping ideas there.

Why you should keep track of your Triggers

Please keep in mind the importance of knowing what your Triggers are and how to recognize the type of seizure you have had.  To put it simply, if you are planning to go on a diet and trying your best to lose weight, you do what the diet says to do today and then by not following it tomorrow then of course that diet is not going to work.  It is not the fault of the diet, it is merely you did not follow it and did not do your due diligence in doing so.  A total change of lifestyle is sometimes needed to address your Triggers but the rewards may be a better quality of life for you with reduced Seizures.

Your Doctor and/or Neurologist can do everything in their power, give you the proper medications, do the necessary and comprehensive tests and surgery, but should you not follow your daily lifestyle plan and take due care to avoid your Triggers then a Seizure is liable to surprise you somewhere.

If you have noticed any particular Triggers that provoked a seizure in you, we would appreciate hearing from you about them. Tell us of how you came to recognize your Triggers  and how it helped you to be aware of them.

 For more information contact brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Herbs that Trigger Seizures

If you are subject to having seizures the following herbs trigger seizures:  Basil, Dill, Fennel, Hyssop, Nutmeg, Rosemary, Sage, Tansy Idaho, Tarragon, Wintergreen. 

Also, the following should also not be taken by anyone who has seizures:

Remove all sugar from the diet, all artificial colors, all artificial flavors and all ammonia based compounds such as quaterniums, polyquaterniums and all foods with the “Phenylketonurics: contains Phenylalanine” warning as it does not mix with some of the medications used.  Consult your doctor for more information regarding the warning.

Food supplements that can be used are:

Blue Agave, Stevia, Mineral Essence, True Source, Multivitamins, Multi Greens, Supert B, Longevity Softgels, Power Meal, Sulfurgyme, Mega Blue Softgels, Balance Complete and Ageless Actives contains 1000 IU of Vitamin D3. 

For more information in purchasing any of the supplements email brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com and I will help you find where these supplements are available in your area.  Some of them can be ordered off the internet.

My daughter has been suffering with Epilepsy Seizures for over 15 years and is having a seizure free life right now because we finally found this information.  By eliminating the herbs that trigger seizures, supplementing her diet with good nutritional supplements, I feel that her medicine the doctor prescribed is able to work.  She is back to normal.  (Ask your doctor for a timed released medication)

For more information visit my blogspot at www. baileysonestop.blogspot.com

Or email me for more information at brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Why Isagenix? Watch the Movie

http://www.isamovie.com/

Watch the movie above to learn more about Isagenix and why I chose to use their products.

For more information contact brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Isagenix Allergen Table

I have really enjoyed Isagenix Products.  Only two products listed contain gluten.

To order please visit my web site at www.baileysonestop.com

Questions - Email:  brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Happy Eating! 

Candida - Fungal Infections

Yeast/Fungal Overgrowth (Candidias) has been found to be a factor in many disorders and is found in millions of people who can not figure out what is wrong with them.

Symptoms appear to be very diverse and vary from individual to individual. This is one of the reasons that yeast is difficult to diagnose. It also makes it difficult for doctors to understand the symptoms that we all deal with on a daily basis.

This is a listing of some of the symptoms that may be associated with candida.

If you have some of the symptoms listed below, you may have candida. 

incapacitating fatigue concentration/focus problems short term memory painful joints muscle aches extreme tightness in the neck and shoulders acid reflux brown colored mucus in the back of the throat white or blood blisters in the mouth/tongue/throat unrefreshing sleep sore throat white coated tongue aversion to be touched - "crawling" skin chronic sinusitis frequent urination diarrhea chronic constipation headaches including migraines visual blurring sensitivity to light eye pain depression irritability anxiety panic attacks personality changes mood swings chills night sweats canker sores shortness of breath hypertension/high blood pressure dizziness and balance problems sensitivity to heat/cold alcohol intolerance gluten intolerance irregular heartbeat

irritable bowel constipation and/or diarrhea painful gas/abdominal bloating low grade fever or low body temperature numbness/tingling in the face or extremities dryness of mouth and eyes difficulty swallowing projectile vomiting menstrual problems (PMS/endometriosis) recurrent yeast infections recurrent ear infections skin rashes dry/flaking skin eczema dermatitis acne skin discoloration/blotchiness dandruff jock and rectal itching chronic athlete's foot chronic toenail and fingernail fungus ringing in the ears (tinnitus) allergies sensitivity to noise/sounds sensitivity to foods sensitivity to chemicals sensitivity to odors anemia weight changes without changes in diet lightheadedness feeling in a fog fainting muscle twitching muscle weakness jerky-leg syndrome low sex drive

This is a SIMPLE and FREE CANDIDA SALIVA TEST I found on the web site
www.stopyeast.com

How do you know if you have candida? This saliva test is a good indicator of candida and you can do it yourself!.

You may want to put out a glass of water in the bathroom or on the nightstand the night before you wish to do the test just to remind yourself not to brush your teeth prior to spitting into the glass.

Yes, we have seen people test negative for yeast with this test. If you do NOT have a yeast concern, your saliva should stay at the top of the glass and will eventually dissipate.

If you have candida, the test should look like this. You may have all or only one of the elements shown here.

"The content on this site is provided exclusively for information purposes, and it is not in any way intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Neither the content nor any other service offered by or through Renewed Health Company or www.stopyeast.com is intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment."

Fungi and yeast feed on decomposing or dead tissues.  They exist everywhere: inside our stomachs, on our skin, and out on the lawn.  When kept under control, the yeast and fungi populating our bodies are harmless and digest what our bodies cannot or do not use.

When we feed the naturally-occuring fungi in our bodies too many simple sugars, the fungal populations are more likely to grow out of control and is marked by fungi invading the blood, gastrointestinal tract and tissues.

Reducing or eliminating simple sugars from the diet is essential to combatting all fungal infections.  Antibiotics and alcohol also should be avoided.

The poisons must be detoxified by the liver and immune system.  Insufficient intake of minerals and trace minerals like magnesium, potassium and zinc may also stimulate candida and fungal overgroth in the body. 

FOS (fructooligosaccharides) and L. acidophilus cultures help fight intestinal fungal infections such as candida.  FOS has been clincally documented in dozens of peer-reviewed studies for its ability to build up the health intestinal flora in the colon and combat the overgrowth of negative bacteria and fungi.  Acidophilus cultures have also been shown to combat fungus overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract.

For more information contact:

brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com

Total Body Cleanse - Welcome in the New Year

Nature’s Remedy to Welcoming the New Year

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It’s a no-brainer that this weekend is going to be full of family, friends and food. To enjoy ringing in the New Year and prevent feeling guilty later, start by preparing your body with a few pre-celebratory Cleanse Days. 

(I don't know about you but I gained 5 pounds.)

Now it's the time to cleanse and get rid of the impurities and toxins!

Lose weight naturally.  No stomach cramps! 

One scoop of Natural Rich Berry Cleanse for Life® powder will not only help your body naturally rid itself of everyday impurities and toxins, but it will also protect your body from the cumulative effects of stress. And let’s face it, family get-togethers can be stressful.

The newly reformulated Natural Rich Berry Cleanse for Life powder’s improved extraction technique pulls active phytochemical properties from each rare ingredient making them more potent.
In addition, Isagenix® Founder John W. Anderson also added two new ingredients, turmeric and burdock root, to naturally enhance your cleansing experience which aids in digestion and supports liver health.

Now better-tasting, this powder includes bilberry, blueberry and raspberry to protect your cells; ashwagandha to support a healthy immune system; and our proprietary Ionic Alfalfa™ to provide whole-body support.

I love to drink the cleanse everyday either at breakfast or lunch.  It's amazing how you don't seem to crave the sugars and starches after you drink it.  I put it in hot water to drink it like a tea. 


For more information on Natural Rich Berry Cleanse for Life powder email:

brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com