Swimming is a great way for people with epilepsy to stay active. Exercise can improve fitness, boost mood, reduce stress, and support overall wellbeing – all of which may help reduce seizure frequency and the impact of epilepsy.
With the right safety strategies, swimming can be a safe and enjoyable activity. Below are key guidelines to help you stay safe in the water.
Before you Swim
- Speak with your doctor before starting or returning to swimming, especially if your seizures are not well controlled.
- Always take a companion. This is good practice for everyone, but essential for people with epilepsy.
- People with poorly controlled or frequent seizures may need additional safety measures.
Choosing a Safe Swimming Environment
- If seizures are not controlled, swim in a pool rather than open water (beach, river, lake)
- Stay in shallow water and close to the pool edge
- If swimming laps, choose an outside lane for easier access
- Inform the lifeguard if your seizures are not well controlled.
Your Swimming Companion Should:
- Know what your seizures look like
- Know what to do if a seizure occurs
- Stay in the water or close by at all times
- Be a strong swimmer and able to stand on the pool floor
- For severe or frequent seizures, two companions may be needed
Additional Safety Tips
- Wear a brightly coloured swimsuit or cap for easy identification.
- Use a buoyancy vest if seizures are frequent.
- Wear tinted goggles or sunglasses if light flicker triggers seizures.
- Avoid resting on the pool edge when not swimming.
- Avoid swimming when tired, unwell, or after recent medication changes.
- Avoid hyperventilating, breath‑holding drills, or long underwater swims.
- Keep snacks nearby to prevent low blood sugar.
- Leave the water immediately if you experience warning signs before a seizure.
- Try to avoid swimming at times when your seizures are more likely.
- Note: if you have had recent medication changes, remember this may increase the risk of you having a seizure.
If a Seizure Occurs in the Water
In the pool
- Support the person’s head so their face stays above water
- Tilt their head back to keep the airway clear
- Remove them from the water once jerking stops
- If jerking continues, seek help and remove them at the shallow end.
In open water
- Remove the person from the water immediately.
- Use flotation devices if available and seek assistance.
Once Out of the Water
- Call an ambulance immediately, even if the person is breathing.
- Place them on their side.
- Check breathing.
- If there is no sign of life, begin resuscitation — 000 operators will guide you.
Provide paramedics with:
- How long the seizure lasted
- What happened during the seizure
- Number of seizures
- Level of awareness or recovery
- Any breathing difficulties
- Whether water was inhaled
- Any injuries
