Epilepsy and Swimming

Aquatic sports can be very safe and enjoyable for people with epilepsy, however certain precautions are often advised. The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) allows swimming when medically supervised, and the neurologist may recommend that people with well-managed epilepsy can safely swim, especially if they have been seizure-free for a long period. With proper safety precautions, those with epilepsy can take part in swimming while minimizing their risk.

Important Safety Tips for Swimming with Epilepsy

To make your swimming experience as safe as possible, heed the following precautions:

• Choose to swim in a pool over the open water.

There is greater temperature control, and the lifeguard may more quickly assist you in a pool environment.

• Tell the lifeguard

Before you start swimming, let the lifeguard know about your condition and how best they can assist you should you experience a seizure.

• Swim in outer lanes.

Try to stay in the outer lanes so that your exit from the pool will be easier in an emergency.

• Avoid swimming when fatigued.

Fatigue is a common seizure trigger, so try only to swim when you are well-rested.

• Stay hydrated 

Also, proper hydration is important, and a sports drink can help maintain blood sugar levels and reduce further seizure risks.

• Wear bright swimwear.

Bright-colored swimming gear makes visibility easier for lifeguards and companions to monitor your safety more effectively.

• Never swim alone.

 Always have a responsible observer present or swim with a companion who is aware of your condition and knows how to respond in an emergency.

Responding to a Seizure in the Water

If someone has a seizure while swimming, it is important to act quickly and correctly. 

Take the following steps:

• Keep their head above water: make sure the swimmer’s head is above water so that they may breathe.
• Shallow water takes the swimmer to shallow water carefully and supports the person without getting in the way of their movements.
• Recovery position after seizure: once the seizure is over, guide the person to land and into the recovery position.
• Go to the hospital or for medical help: In case the swimmer swallows some water, it is best to seek immediate medical consultation even if he seems to be breathing well.

Role Model Swimmers with Epilepsy

There have been lots of professional swimmers who proved that one can still be successful in this field despite epilepsy. The following are just some:

• Davis Tarwater: Olympian, gold medalist in the 800m free relay
• Bryana Cielo: professional college swimmer and instructor.
• Zach McGinnis is a U.S. national team swimmer, and record holder.

Conclusion

Under proper medical guidance and safety precautions, people with epilepsy should have no reason not to enjoy swimming. The risk of such an important and enjoyable activity can be reduced by taking suggested precautions and going by the advice of a neurologist.