Whats the #1 Seizure Trigger in the Summer?
Even if your patients or students consistently take their anti-epileptic medication, a breakthrough seizure can occur — anywhere, anytime. In her 15 years as school nurse in a California high school, Lora Morn, RN has found “lack of sleep is the number one seizure trigger for my students.” Could it be the same with your patients? While seizure triggers differ for each patient, changes in sleep patterns are common in the summer. According to Morn, it’s wise to remind your patients and/or their parents to build summer travel itineraries with rest in mind: plan for afternoon breaks, rest stops when hiking, and for light evening activities to minimize possible breakthrough seizures. “In my opinion,” Morn states, “lack of sleep is the number one seizure trigger for my students.” Lack of sleep can be caused by the stress of exams during the school year or by excitement of travel plans during the summer.” “My biggest tip,” she continues, “is to have the students or their parents consciously b
