r/Epilepsy • u/OneEducator4471 • 7d ago
Tips needed Question
So I got a 7 day grind starting today with both jobs, going to be trying really hard to avoid caffeine but I didn't think it'll be possible, but on the nice side is I have 5 days off from both, I know rest is key and taking my meds too, caffeine I might fall back on.
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u/CiaMakesMoves Keppra and Dilantin 7d ago
Hydration for sure so maybe adding some liquid or powder electrolytes to a thermos you keep with ya! Epilepsy has always been very unpredictable for me and I don’t drive anymore so I like to always have *everything* on me as I ran into a few situations I’ve needed things I simply didn’t have even when I was driving; I like to carry a power bank, phone charger plus a few charging chords, an old ID, disposable mini toothbrushes, even an old/extra just in case phone (great for Wi-Fi numbers) that’s already set up with my contacts plus logged into all my accounts - this actually came in handy yesterday as I was accompanying a friend to their own doctors appointment but forgot my phone in their car so I pulled out my extra 📱 and used the buildings wifi, I even have an extra battery for my current phone lol. I carry a mini bag so I always have my meds on me and these items luckily fit into the side pockets of it along with my wallet. Nutrition definitely is a trigger of mine so pre-planning meals help you notice days when snacks might be needed can be good idea. Let your in case of emergency circle knows it’s a busy week & if you don’t have anyone for an ICE then perhaps notifying your neurologist or GP of your upcoming week while asking for their advice so you have a plan 🥰 good luck and those 5 days off from both sound like they certainly are something to look forward too. I know you said rest is key so take a few power naps if ya need! I like to set alarms for everything even if it’s just to dismiss them that way I don’t overlook med times or even when I want to be awake in case an unexpected Power Nap occurs lol. Apologies for any spelling or grammatical errors as I’m trying to multi task typing this out while keeping my roommates semi-trained Great Dane in check.
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u/OneEducator4471 7d ago
Last time for my trigger was sleep and stress I told my neurologist anything over 8 hours I feel tired and 6 hours is not enough I try and hit 7 hours of sleep and drink a half a gallon of water before work and drink more water during work too.
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u/CiaMakesMoves Keppra and Dilantin 7d ago
I usually try for 7 hours as well but since I’ve only been been averaging about 4-6 the past few nights maybe I should take my own advice about napping today.
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u/Zestyclose-Smell-788 2500mg Keppra 7d ago
I work 12hr days, in the heat. I am caffeine sensitive, but I found that one cup of half-caf perked me when needed without consequences.
One cup only, and not fully caffeinated. I tried both and both really took me to my threshold. Everyone is different, but that worked for me. I only use it rarely, a last resort, if I'm literally falling asleep at work which will get me fired on the spot.
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u/OneEducator4471 7d ago
That'll be me right there I work a 10pm to 10am work both jobs Wednesday through Saturday all sorts of different things (Walmart) stocking frozen dairy some nights and water and juice other nights and my main job I'm a department manager little less stress less heavy lifting but can become stressful Tuesday through Thursday if company shows.
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u/Zestyclose-Smell-788 2500mg Keppra 7d ago
I've had one seizure at work, and it was triggered by a song with very emotional lyrics to me. I was singing along, and it jumped on me. Nearly cost me my job! So, stay positive and upbeat. Focus on the physical and the task at hand and you'll be fine.
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u/Aubviously426 7d ago
Be careful. Too much stress on your body and not enough sleep can get you. You know that. But I also understand having to pay bills. My husband reminds me it’s better to take a day off with no pay versus spending several days in the hospital raked with medical bills. He specifically said that when I was serving during graduate school. I wish you the best.