Perceived trigger factors of seizures in persons with epilepsy

Purpose: Little is known about the triggering factors (TFs) of seizures in persons with epilepsy (PWE). This study aimed to document the perception of PWE of factors that precipitated their seizures. Materials and methods: Data was obtained from 405 patients attending the Epilepsy Clinic at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). This was analyzed using appropriate descriptive and inferential biostatistical methods. A Trigger Assessment Tool (TAT) was designed for this study. Results: 89% of the participants reported at least one TF. Between one and ten TFs were endorsed. The most common TFs reported by the patients (in descending order) were found to be: Missing medication (40.9%), emotional stress (31.3%), sleep deprivation (19.7%), fatigue (15.3%), missing meals (9.1%), fever (6.4%), and smoking (6.4%). A significant association was seen among some of the commonly reported TFs (missing medication, sleep deprivation, emotional stress, and fatigue). Conclusion: TFs should be evaluated during the management of PWE. However, self perceived TF should be interpreted with caution and differentiated from actual TF. Future studies may consider empowering patients with avoidance strategies and self-control techniques done. (C) 2013 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.