Holidays with Peace of Mind

I have epilepsy – can I fly on a plane? I have epilepsy – can I safely change time zones? These are some of the most common questions that arise during the holiday season in the offices of epileptologists at our center. The answer is always affirmative. However, doctors emphasize the importance of proper preparation for such a trip.

Flying? We’re all for it!

One of the concerns for patients diagnosed with epilepsy is the need to give up their previous lifestyle. Flying or changing time zones may seem out of reach. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Summer – and other – activities are still possible. The key is good preparation.

“There are no regulations or restrictions that prohibit people with epilepsy from flying, including long-distance flights involving time zone changes. The key here is proper preparation for the trip,” says Dr. Piotr Zwoliński, Medical Partner at the Neurosphera Neurology, Epilepsy, and Psychiatry Center.

Before the trip, patients should consult their attending physician to discuss all related details – the duration of the trip, its purpose, and the flight times. The result of such a visit is an individual action plan, which includes guidelines on adjusting medication schedules in the event of a time zone change.

“It’s important that the patient also carries a certificate describing the illness and the medications being taken (especially if they are syrups). We issue these in both Polish and English. If the patient has a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) implanted, they should also bring a document confirming it is a medical device,” adds Dr. Piotr Zwoliński.

Preparing for a Time Zone Change

Changing time zones is never beneficial for the brain's functioning, even in completely healthy people. This is why proper preparation is so important.

Westward Journey

Traveling westward adds time, but also significant fatigue. Our body has to cope without sleep for a longer period. What can be done? Delay the bedtime by one or two hours. Also, don’t be afraid to expose yourself to artificial light in the evenings. Upon reaching your destination, you can also use melatonin. In the case of this time shift, take it before the planned bedtime.

Eastward Journey

Time zone changes in this direction cause the night to arrive too early for our bodies, and we lose valuable hours of the day. How to deal with it? It’s best to start a few days before departure. Waking up an hour earlier, although it can be inconvenient, will help you prepare well for the trip. Importantly, immediately after waking up, you should expose yourself to light – either daylight (if possible) or artificial. Melatonin can also help here. It should be taken a few days before departure, several hours before sleep.

Remember, melatonin is a hormonal medication. Therefore, regardless of the direction of travel, it should be prescribed by a doctor, and the dosage and timing should be discussed with them.

What to Do if You Lose Your Medication?

Before departure, it’s essential to take care of refilling your travel medicine kit. Despite proper preparation, situations can arise where anti-epileptic medications are lost. However, this is not a reason to panic or, even worse, to cut your vacation short. Even when abroad, here’s what you should do:

The patient must visit the nearest primary healthcare provider (travel insurance is necessary!) and show the name of the medication. A specialist, with even basic knowledge of epilepsy, will choose an available substitute in that country that contains the same substances and appropriate dosage levels.

It’s worth noting that new technologies are a big help. Our Neuroterminal system, used by all patients in our center, enables quick contact with a doctor from virtually anywhere in the world. The patient can easily check what medication and dosage they are taking. If necessary, they will also receive a prescription.

A list of anti-epileptic medications and their substitutes in various countries has been published by the scientific journal “Epilepsy,” issued by the International League Against Epilepsy. If needed, this information can also be easily found online.

Sunbathing, Tanning, and Trekking – Forbidden or Allowed?

Many people with epilepsy wonder if they can fully enjoy summer activities such as sunbathing, swimming, or hiking. What do doctors say about this?

Sunbathing

There is no evidence that sun exposure can lower the seizure threshold, except in rare cases, such as certain forms of Dravet syndrome. Epileptics should practice the same sunbathing hygiene as everyone else: use SPF filters no lower than 30, wear a protective hat, avoid overheating, drink enough fluids, and limit sun exposure. As doctors indicate, excessive sun exposure is harmful to everyone, regardless of their health status.

What people with epilepsy should keep in mind is whether their anti-epileptic medications interact unfavorably with sunlight, especially in advanced polytherapy. Older medications can make the skin hypersensitive, causing burns or pigmentation changes. If in doubt, it’s advisable to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

Swimming

“According to the International League Against Epilepsy, physical activity positively affects the health of people with epilepsy. This includes swimming. However, I emphasize that we’re talking about recreational swimming, not competitive sports where we push ourselves to the limit. That should be reserved for healthy individuals with good physical endurance,” says Dr. Piotr Zwoliński.

Epilepsy patients should not swim alone and must choose supervised swimming areas. Diving is also not recommended.

Mountain Hiking

Trekking is not only an opportunity to enjoy beautiful views and commune with nature but also a way for many people to relax. This activity is also not forbidden for epileptics, as long as the hikes are calm. Patients should, however, gradually adapt to new conditions, particularly changes in pressure or temperature. Therefore, doctors recommend avoiding steep ascents, which involve rapid elevation gain, and opting for lighter treks instead.