Epilepsy is a disorder in the central nervous system that leads to abnormal brain activity. The condition triggers seizures, instances of unusual behavior, and loss of awareness and sensations. Epilepsy is common in men and women and affects about 50 million people across the world. Many people may find that the disorder recedes with time, but others may experience seizures throughout their life. In either case, here are five tips to manage epilepsy:

Initiate a treatment plan
If one is diagnosed with epilepsy, it is imperative to get on a treatment plan immediately. The doctor may prescribe treatment options to manage the condition. XCOPRI® (cenobamate) CV is one such option prescribed to treat partial-onset seizures in people who are 18 years of age or older.

Eat healthy foods
Balanced healthy meals can ensure the body receives the nutrition it deserves to improve overall health. Potatoes, rice, and bread provide carbohydrates that build energy levels in the body. Protein-rich foods like milk, meat, fish, beans, and lentils help build muscle strength, hormones, and red blood cells, which improve how one deals with epilepsy.

Avoid trigger foods
Some foods can trigger and worsen the symptoms of epilepsy. A few unhealthy foods to be avoided are coffee, tea, chocolate, sweets, and excess salt as they reduce blood sugar levels in the body, which may lead to seizures. So it is recommended to steer clear of these foods to improve one’s condition.

Make lifestyle changes
Making changes to one’s lifestyle is an ideal way of improving the symptoms of epilepsy. A positive lifestyle change includes indulging in regular exercise like walking to improve one’s mood and relieve stress. As these factors trigger seizures, regular exercise may help relieve the symptom. Getting adequate sleep can reduce fatigue, a common cause of seizures that makes the brain more susceptible to complications.

Be mindful of the condition
Being mindful of epilepsy can help improve how a person lives with the disorder. Learning more about the condition is one method to be mindful of the disorder. One may also record seizure occurrences and their triggers in a book to analyze patterns. Doing so can help one learn how to avoid the symptom. Seeking support from family and friends may also positively influence how one manages epilepsy in their daily life.

Doctors may prescribe Valtoco as a therapy for short-term treatment of seizure clusters. Valtoco is sold as a nasal spray, and each package contains two individual blister packs with a total of 15 mg diazepam solution. The small size makes it convenient to carry around and have on hand for emergencies. However, simultaneous use of opioids can lead to severe complications and side effects. So, please check the Valtoco package insert for more details before starting treatment.

Another prescription to help regulate partial onset seizures in the treatment of epilepsy is BRIVIACT® (brivaracetam). The treatment option is available in pill and solution forms and is administered to individuals one month of age and older. One should ensure they follow the maximum dosage prescribed by the doctor.