Medically reviewed by Manisha Holmes, MD

For people living with epilepsy, seizures can happen without warning. Even if there is no clear cause, everyday factors can increase the risk of seizures. Understanding these common triggers can help patients and families take steps to reduce risk, improve seizure control and know when to reach out to their care team.

1. Missed or Inconsistent Medication

One of the most common seizure triggers is missing doses of anti-seizure medication. Even a single missed dose can increase seizure risk for some individuals. Taking medications exactly as prescribed at the same time each day is essential. Setting phone reminders, using pill organizers, and refilling prescriptions early can help maintain consistency.

2. Lack of Sleep and Fatigue

Sleep plays a critical role in brain health. Inadequate sleep, irregular sleep schedules, or frequent nighttime awakenings can lower the brain’s seizure threshold. This is especially important for children, teens, and shift workers. Prioritizing regular sleep routines and addressing sleep disorders can make a meaningful difference in seizure control.

3. Stress and Emotional Health

Physical and emotional stress can contribute to seizure activity. Major life changes, illness, anxiety, and chronic stress may all increase risk. While stress can’t always be avoided, strategies such as mindfulness, counseling, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques may help reduce its impact.

4. Illness, Fever and Dehydration

Infections, fevers, and dehydration can disrupt the body’s balance and increase seizure risk, particularly in children. Staying well hydrated, managing fevers promptly, and seeking medical care when illnesses worsen are important steps in seizure prevention.

5. Alcohol and Substance Use

Alcohol can interfere with anti-seizure medications and disrupt sleep, both of which may increase seizure risk. Binge drinking and alcohol withdrawal are especially dangerous. Recreational drugs and certain supplements may also trigger seizures or interact with medications. Patients should always discuss alcohol use or new supplements with their healthcare provider.

6. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can influence seizure patterns, particularly in adolescents and women. Puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause may all affect seizure frequency. Tracking seizure patterns and discussing changes with a neurologist can help guide treatment adjustments.

7. Screen Time and Sensory Triggers

For a small percentage of individuals, flashing lights, video games, or certain visual patterns may trigger seizures. While photosensitive epilepsy is relatively uncommon, taking breaks from screens, adjusting brightness, and using protective filters may help those who are sensitive.

Why Ongoing Care Matters

Because seizure triggers vary from person to person, ongoing communication with your doctor is key. Keeping a seizure diary, noting lifestyle changes and reporting new or worsening symptoms can help care teams tailor treatment plans over time. WMCHealth’s epilepsy specialists work closely with patients and families to identify seizure triggers, optimize medication plans and provide education that supports everyday safety. Learn more about epilepsy care at WMCHealth.