01Feb 2023 by Roli Arora

Epilepsy and sleep are closely related. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes abnormal brain activity and seizures, which can disrupt sleep and cause various sleep-related problems.

Here are some key points to consider regarding Epilepsy and sleep:

People with Epilepsy may be more prone to sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep Apnea.
Seizures can cause difficulty falling or staying asleep, sleepwalking, or sleep talking.
Poor sleep can affect the effectiveness of Epilepsy treatment and increase the risk of seizures.
People with Epilepsy need to prioritise sleep and adopt good sleep hygiene practices, such as setting a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing sleep environment, and avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime.
If you have Epilepsy and are experiencing sleep problems, you must speak with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your sleep patterns and recommend treatment options to help you get a good night’s sleep.

Treatment of sleep-related seizures(sleep Epilepsy) may involve:

Use of medications that are specifically formulated to be taken at bedtime or during the night.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which assist in treating sleep apnea and enhance sleep quality, may also be used in this context.
In addition to treatment, people with Epilepsy need to practise good sleep hygiene, which includes establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime. Good sleep hygiene can help improve sleep quality and may help reduce the risk of seizures.

Knowing what to do if you or someone you are with experiences a seizure is essential because this condition can constitute a serious medical emergency. Learning first aid for seizures can help keep the person safe and prevent injury while the person is having a seizure.

What Distinguishes Epilepsy From Seizures?

The following table provides a comparison between Epilepsy and seizures:

It is crucial to remember that seizures are one of the signs of Epilepsy. But, Epilepsy is not present in every person who has ever had a seizure.

Some people may experience a single seizure due to a transient or reversible cause, such as alcohol withdrawal or a high fever. Contrarily, Epilepsy is a long-term disorder that needs constant medical attention.

Let us understand in-depth about Epilepsy.

What Is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological illness that is marked by recurring seizures. Recurrent seizures are a hallmark of Epilepsy.

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical discharges in the brain that can cause various symptoms, such as muscle spasms, loss of consciousness, or sensory disturbances.

Various factors, including head injury, brain infection, or genetic predisposition, can cause Epilepsy. There are numerous subtypes of Epilepsy, each of which is distinguished from the others by the kind of seizure they cause and the affected region of the brain.

The following are examples of common forms of Epilepsy:

Generalised Epilepsy: This type of Epilepsy is characterised by seizures that involve both sides of the brain. Tonic-clonic (formerly known as grand mal) seizures are generalised Epilepsy.
Focal Epilepsy: This type of Epilepsy is characterised by seizures originating from a specific brain area. Focal Epilepsy can also manifest as complex partial seizures.
Unknown cause: Some people with Epilepsy have seizures that cannot be traced to a specific cause. This is known as idiopathic Epilepsy.

Epilepsy may have a variety of causes, some of which are:

Genetics: Epilepsy can run in families. A person may be more likely to develop Epilepsy if a close relative has the condition.
Head trauma: Head trauma, such as a concussion or a brain injury, can increase the risk of developing Epilepsy.
A brain infection: Infections such as meningitis or encephalitis can damage the brain and increase the risk of Epilepsy.
Strokes: Strokes, which occur when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, can cause damage to the brain and increase the risk of Epilepsy.
Blood vessel malformations: Abnormalities in the brain’s blood vessels, such as aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations, can increase the risk of Epilepsy.
Tumours: Brain tumours can cause damage to brain tissue and increase the risk of Epilepsy.

It is essential to remember that the aforementioned conditions are only some of the possible Epilepsy triggers. The root of Epilepsy is frequently unidentified.

Some people may be at higher risk of developing Epilepsy, including:

Abnormal pregnancy: Complications during pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia or eclampsia, can increase the risk of Epilepsy in the mother and the child.
History of being hospitalised: A history of being hospitalised for a serious illness or injury, such as a head injury or a stroke, can increase the risk of Epilepsy.
People who snore: Loud snoring, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as daytime sleepiness or pauses in breathing during sleep, maybe a sign of sleep apnea, which can increase the risk of Epilepsy.
People who are 40 or older: The risk of developing Epilepsy increases with age, with the highest incidence occurring in people over 60.
Those with sleep disorders: Sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea can increase the risk of Epilepsy.
People with a family history of seizures: A person may be more likely to develop Epilepsy if a close relative has the condition.

Several types of Epilepsy are more likely to cause sleep or nocturnal seizures:

Juvenile myoclonic Epilepsy: This type of Epilepsy typically begins in adolescence and is characterised by myoclonic seizures, which are brief, shock-like jerks that affect the muscles. Seizures may occur upon waking up or during the day and may be triggered by sleep deprivation or alcohol use.
Awakening tonic-clonic seizures: Also known as grand mal seizures, usually occur upon waking up and may cause the person to cry out, fall out of bed, and lose consciousness.
Childhood benign rolandic Epilepsy: This type of Epilepsy typically begins in childhood and is characterised by seizures that occur during sleep, often in the early morning hours.
Frontal lobe Epilepsy: It is characterised by seizures originating in the brain’s frontal lobes. Seizures may occur during sleep and may accompany unusual behaviours or movements.
Landau-Kleffner syndrome: This rare disorder is characterised by the sudden onset of Epilepsy and language difficulties. Seizures are most common during sleep.

Sleep Epilepsy Symptoms

Symptoms of sleep Epilepsy, also known as nocturnal Epilepsy, may include:

Seizures that occur exclusively during sleep or that are more likely to occur during sleep: This is the primary symptom of sleep Epilepsy. Seizures during sleep may be more difficult to control and require special treatment.

Confusion or disorientation upon waking up: After a seizure during sleep, the person may feel confused or disoriented. They may not remember what happened or have difficulty recalling details about the seizure.

Sleepwalking or other unusual behaviours during sleep: Some people with sleep Epilepsy may exhibit unusual behaviours, such as sleepwalking or sleep talking. These behaviours may be more frequent or severe during increased seizure activity.

Sleep talking or shouting: Some people with sleep Epilepsy may talk or shout during sleep. These outbursts may be related to seizure activity. They may be more frequent or severe during periods of increased seizure activity.

Bedwetting or incontinence during sleep: Seizures during sleep may cause the person to lose control of their bladder or bowel function. It can result in bedwetting or incontinence during sleep.

Sudden awakenings with a feeling of panic or fear: Seizures during sleep can cause the person to awaken with a feeling of panic or fear suddenly. They may also feel disoriented or confused upon waking up.

Headache upon waking up: Headaches may be a symptom of sleep Epilepsy. These headaches may be more severe during periods of increased seizure activity.

What Is Grinding Teeth In Sleep Epilepsy?

Grinding teeth (bruxism) is a common sleep disorder involving teeth grinding or clenching during sleep. Several variables, such as anxiety, stress, or even particular drugs, can bring on this condition. In some cases, teeth grinding may be associated with Epilepsy. Teeth grinding may result from muscle spasms or contractions during a seizure. Treating teeth grinding in people with Epilepsy may involve a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and protective devices.

Here are a few examples:

Medications: Certain medications, such as muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications, may help manage Epilepsy and reduce the risk of teeth grinding.
Lifestyle changes: Changing your daily routines, such as reducing stress or avoiding caffeine and alcohol, may help reduce the risk of teeth grinding.
Protective devices: Wearing a mouthguard or other protective device while sleeping can help prevent tooth damage from grinding.

What Is The Connection Between Epilepsy And Sleep Disorders?

A sleep disorder known as sleep apnea is characterised by periodic breathing cessation while sleeping. Repeated seizures are the hallmark of the neurological disorder known as sleep apnea Epilepsy.

While sleep apnea and Epilepsy are two different conditions, they can be connected in several ways:

Sleep apnea can increase the risk of seizures: Sleep apnea can cause changes in brain activity during sleep, increasing the risk of seizures in people with Epilepsy.
Epilepsy can increase the risk of sleep apnea: Sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, can develop due to disruptions to the regular sleep cycle caused by epileptic seizures or other changes in brain activity.

Some Epilepsy medications can cause sleep apnea: Some medications used to treat Epilepsy can cause side effects that affect sleep, such as drowsiness or sleepwalking. In rare cases, these medications may also cause sleep apnea.

What Is An Epilepsy Sleep Monitor?

An Epilepsy sleep monitor is a device worn while a person sleeps to monitor for seizures that occur during sleep. The purpose of an Epilepsy sleep monitor is to alert caregivers or loved ones if a seizure occurs during sleep so that they can assist.

There are several types of Epilepsy sleep monitors available, and they work in different ways to detect seizures.

Listed below are some examples:

Movement-based monitors: These monitors use sensors to detect changes in movement during sleep. The monitor can alert caregivers or loved ones if it detects unusual movement.
Heart rate monitors: These monitors use sensors to detect changes in heart rate during sleep.
EEG monitors: These monitors use sensors to detect changes in brain activity during sleep. If the monitor picks up on irregular brain activity, it can notify caregivers.

How Does Sleep Affect My Seizures?

It is essential to pay attention to the patterns of your sleep and to ensure that you are getting enough of it.

Some of the ways in which sleep can impact seizures are outlined below:

A higher incidence of seizures has been linked to insufficient sleep: People with Epilepsy often have sleep disturbances, which can trigger seizures. Getting enough sleep and trying to maintain a regular sleep schedule are important.

Insufficient sleep can lead to an increased risk of seizures in several ways. For example, sleep deprivation can alter brain chemistry and increase the risk of seizures. It can also lead to increased stress and irritability, which can trigger seizures in some people.

Sleep problems can be a symptom of Epilepsy: Sleep problems, such as sleepwalking or night terrors, can be a symptom of Epilepsy. If you are experiencing sleep problems, you must talk to your doctor.
Sleep stages can affect seizure frequency and severity: Some research has suggested that seizures are more likely to occur during certain stages of sleep, such as deep sleep or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. This may be due to changes in brain activity during these sleep stages.

Epileptic Seizures While Sleeping

Epileptic seizures can occur during sleep in some people with Epilepsy.

Here are a few points to consider:

Seizures that occur during sleep may be more difficult to recognize, as they may not be as visible as seizures that occur while a person is awake.

Some common signs of a seizure during sleep include sudden body movements, such as thrashing or jerking, or making noises, such as grunting or moaning.

Seizures during sleep may cause sleep disturbances. Seizures during sleep can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and lead to problems with sleep quality.

This can cause fatigue and sleepiness during the day, as well as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night.

Seizures during sleep may be more difficult to treat. Seizures during sleep may be more difficult to treat, as they may not respond as well to medications or other treatments.

Sleep-related seizure sufferers should consult a medical professional to assist them in finding the most effective treatment options.

Seizures during sleep may be more dangerous. Seizures during sleep may be more dangerous, as they can cause a person to fall or injure themselves if they are not in a safe place.

Using a seizure alert device and sleeping on a mattress on the floor are two measures one can take to lessen the likelihood of physical harm occurring during an episode of seizures.

Do You Need More Sleep If You Have Epilepsy?

It is generally recommended that people with Epilepsy get enough sleep to help manage their seizures and overall health.

The following are some things that ought to be taken into consideration:

A greater propensity towards seizures is associated with inadequate rest. People with Epilepsy often have sleep disturbances, and this lack of sleep can trigger seizures. It is important to get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule to help reduce the risk of seizures.

Insufficient sleep increases the likelihood of seizures in some ways. Here are a few examples:

Sleep deprivation can alter brain chemistry: Lack of sleep can alter the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as neurotransmitters, which can increase the risk of seizures.
Sleep deprivation can increase stress and irritability: Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress and irritability, which can trigger seizures in some people.
Sleep deprivation can affect seizure control: Lack of sleep can affect the effectiveness of seizure medications, which can increase the risk of seizures.
Sleep deprivation can affect overall health: Lack of sleep can lead to several other health problems, such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and a weakened immune system, which can increase the risk of seizures.
Sleep problems can be a symptom of Epilepsy. Sleep problems can be caused by seizures that occur during sleep, or they can result from changes in brain activity related to Epilepsy.

Some common sleep problems that can be associated with Epilepsy include:

Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep: Seizures or changes in brain activity related to Epilepsy can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and lead to problems with sleep quality.
Sleepwalking or night terrors: These sleep disorders can be caused by seizures that occur during sleep, or they can result from changes in brain activity related to Epilepsy.
Daytime sleepiness: Seizures or sleep disturbances caused by Epilepsy can lead to daytime sleepiness, affecting a person’s ability to function during the day.
Sleep and Epilepsy treatment may be linked. It would help if you spoke with a physician about any sleep problems or concerns while taking Epilepsy medications.

Sleep and Epilepsy treatment can be linked in several ways:

Some medications used to treat Epilepsy can affect sleep: Some Epilepsy medications can cause side effects that affect sleep, such as drowsiness, insomnia, or sleepwalking.
Sleep problems can be a symptom of Epilepsy: Sleep problems, such as night terrors, can be a symptom of Epilepsy. These sleep problems can be caused by seizures that occur during sleep, or they can result from changes in brain activity related to Epilepsy.
Adequate sleep can help manage seizures: Getting enough sleep and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help reduce the risk of seizures and improve seizure control.
Treatment for sleep problems may help manage Epilepsy: Treating sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, may help improve seizure control in some people with Epilepsy.
Adequate sleep is important for overall health. Sufficient sleep is crucial to one’s health and well-being. Getting enough sleep can help with physical and mental health and cognitive function.

Here are a few ways that adequate sleep can benefit your health:

Improves physical health: Adequate sleep can help improve physical health by boosting the immune system, regulating hormone levels, and helping to decrease the likelihood of developing diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Improves mental health: Adequate sleep can help improve mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and helping to reduce the risk of certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
Improves cognitive function: Adequate sleep can help improve cognitive function, including memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

Should You Sleep After A Seizure?

Yes, it is generally recommended to sleep after a seizure. Here are a few more details on why sleep is important after a seizure:

Sleep can help the body recover: Sleep is an important part of the body’s recovery process. It can help repair cells, restore energy, and strengthen the immune system. Getting enough sleep after a seizure can help the body recover and feel refreshed. This is especially important if the seizure was physically strenuous or caused injuries.
Sleep can help manage seizure risk: Getting enough sleep and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help reduce the risk of seizures and improve seizure control. This is because sleep helps to regulate brain activity and can help prevent the build-up of certain chemicals in the brain that may trigger seizures.
Sleep can help manage other seizure-related symptoms: Seizures can cause various symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, and headache. Sleep can help manage these symptoms and improve overall well-being.

It is generally recommended to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults to help maintain good health.

Can You Die From A Seizure In Your Sleep?

While it is rare, one can die from a seizure during sleep. People with certain forms of Epilepsy are at increased risk for this, such as tonic-clonic (formerly known as grand mal) seizures or complex partial seizures, which can cause a person to stop breathing or have a heart attack.

Several factors can increase the risk of death from a seizure during sleep, including:

Seizure type: Some types of seizures, such as tonic-clonic or complex partial seizures, can be more dangerous during sleep, as they can cause a person to stop breathing or have a heart attack.
Sleep position: Sleeping in a prone position (on the stomach) can increase the risk of death from a seizure during sleep, as it can cause a person to suffocate.
Other medical conditions: People with other medical conditions, such as sleep apnea Epilepsy ,or cardiovascular disease, may be at increased risk of death from a seizure during sleep.

Are There Any Symptoms Of Skin Allergies Associated With Epilepsy?

It is not common for Epilepsy to cause skin allergies or allergic reactions. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes abnormal brain activity and seizures. The main symptoms of Epilepsy are seizures, which can manifest in various ways, such as convulsions, muscle spasms, or loss of consciousness.

However, people with Epilepsy can experience allergic reactions to certain medications used to treat Epilepsy. These medications can cause various allergic reactions, including skin rashes or hives.

If you are experiencing skin allergies or allergic reactions and you have Epilepsy, it is important to speak with your doctor about your symptoms and any medications you are taking.

First aid for children affected by Epilepsy

Caregivers of children with Epilepsy need to be familiar with paediatric first aid for seizures. Here are some general guidelines for providing first aid to a child experiencing a seizure or post-stroke seizure:

Stay calm and stay with the child.
Protect the child from injury by removing any hard or sharp objects from the area and gently moving the child to a flat, safe surface.
Do not try to stop the seizure by holding the child down or placing anything in their mouth.
Do not try to give the child anything to eat or drink during the seizure or stroke.
Time the seizure and note any unusual behaviours or symptoms.
If the seizure lasts over five minutes or the kid has trouble breathing, call 000 or take them to the emergency room immediately.

Having a seizure action plan with your child’s healthcare provider is also a good idea, which outlines steps to take during and after a seizure. It can help to ensure that the child receives appropriate medical care in the event of a seizure.