Epilepsy is a brain condition that causes seizures. When someone has epilepsy, their brain cells send irregular signals.
It is these bursts of electrical activity that cause a seizure. Seizures look different in each person. Some people stare blankly or twitch one part of the body.
Others lose consciousness and shake all over. Follow this link to learn more.
With good treatment and support, the majority of people are able to control their seizures. They learn to notice warning signs or auras—odd smells, tingling or feelings that a seizure is near.
Does Epilepsy Affect Life?
If you or a loved one has epilepsy, it can affect different parts of your life. This can range from social, to work, study and personal safety. But it does not define you.
Like many people, if you can get access to proper care, you or your loved one may be able to live day-to-day as if you did not have epilepsy. Social life can change if you worry about having a seizure around friends.
Because of this, you might find yourself avoiding crowded places or parties with flashing lights. Still, joining a support group can help.
Here, you will meet other people with similar experiences and you will surely see that you are not alone. You will also be able to find close friends who understand.
If you go to school or work, you may also need small adjustments. A student with epilepsy might need extra time for exams or a quiet room to rest after a seizure.
At work, you can discuss flexible hours or a desk near an exit. It is also worth mentioning that daily tasks, like cooking or swimming come with great risks if a seizure starts unexpectedly. To manage the risks, you might cook on a low heat or swim with a buddy.
You may also want to use an alarm or smart devices that can alert your loved ones if a seizure occurs. Still on whether epilepsy does affect life, this condition can interfere with your mental health as well.
Anxiety and low mood occur more often in people with epilepsy so you might want to speak to a counsellor or join a local support group to ease these feelings. Proper treatment often improves both physical and mental well-being.
What Jobs can Someone with Epilepsy do?
Having epilepsy in Singapore does not rule out many careers. You may need to consider safety or legal rules for certain roles. Still, you can work in most fields. Here are some options:
- Office and Administration: Roles like administrative assistant, data entry or customer support are common for people with epilepsy in Singapore. These jobs involve sitting at a desk, which poses low risk if a seizure occurs. Your employer can adjust your work station, for instance, by reducing sharp edges around the desk.
- Information Technology and Creative Work: Jobs like software tester, graphic designer or writer fit well. You can work on a computer with breaks to avoid fatigue. Most tasks let you set a comfortable pace, which helps manage triggers like tiredness.
- Education and Training: Teaching or tutoring is possible if your seizures are well-controlled. You may prefer part-time or know-your-classrooms setups. School leaders in Singapore often support teachers with medical needs by allowing substitute teachers when needed.
- Business and Finance: Roles in accounting, marketing or human resources generally suit people with epilepsy. You might face stress, but many financial institutions offer stress management programmes which you can find helpful. Importantly, flexible work hours or remote work can also help.
- Artisan and Craft Work: Some people choose crafts like tailoring, jewellery making or pottery. These let you set your own pace and environment. Working from home or a small studio reduces public safety concerns.
Before choosing a job, please check guidelines for specific roles. Some careers, like commercial driving or roles with heavy machinery, may have restrictions.
So, be sure to always discuss your plan with a doctor. They can advise on whether you need extra safety measures or tests for the role you want. With proper care, epilepsy need not limit your career choices.
What Should you not do if you have Epilepsy?
Managing epilepsy in Singapore means avoiding some activities that raise your risk. Below are key points to keep in mind:
- Do not Skip your Medication: Your anti-seizure medicine keeps your brain signals stable. You do not want to miss doses as this can trigger seizures. Always set alarms or use pill organisers so you do not forget. If you have side effects, talk to your doctor before making changes.
- Do not Ignore Warning Signs: If you notice auras—strange smells, odd sensations or a sudden feeling of fear—take them seriously. These signals often appear before a seizure. Move to a safe spot, sit or lie down and alert someone nearby.
- Do not Drive Without Clearance: Traffic rules in Singapore require you to be seizure-free for six months before applying for normal driving privileges. Driving too soon risks you and others. Instead, use public transport, ride-hailing or arrange lifts until your doctor clears you.
- Do Not Swim Alone: Swimming without a buddy can be dangerous if a seizure strikes in the water. Always swim in a supervised pool or with a friend who knows what to do. Wearing a life vest adds extra safety.
In Closing
Living with epilepsy in Singapore does bring challenges, but it does not prevent a full life. Provided that you can build a solid care plan, you can focus on your goals and enjoy daily life.
Keep in mind though that each person’s experience is unique and what works for you may not be the right fit for another person. A good epilepsy specialist will help you find the best program for you. With the right help, you can take charge of epilepsy and make it one part of your journey, not the whole story.
Do you wish to talk to a specialist about epilepsy in Singapore? Our clinic offers caring epilepsy support and clear guidance. Book an appointment now and begin the next step in managing your health. Call or visit us at;
CHOU Neurosurgery Clinic (Farrer Park) – Brain & Spine Specialist Singapore
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, #08-06, Singapore 217562
Phone: +65 6694 7942
