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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭
Idaho Falls, ID
March 23
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Everyone is different . Some of us may seizure from anything with caffeine.

Then again there is non-caffeinated coffee.

March 23
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I do

March 23
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Hello my fellow Warriors, my name is Tom and I too have Epilepsy. My type of seizures are known as Absence Focal. Besides having Epilepsy, I am also a Researcher in the field of Epileptic Triggers.

As for coffee, and how safe is it for people who have epilepsy to drink...

Coffee for the most part, can be safe to drink. For some people however, the ingredient know as caffeine is a trigger for a seizure to happen in some people who have epilepsy.

Caffeine is 1 out of 75 different triggers that can cause seizures in different people who have epilepsy.

If you feel and find that you don't have the trigger of CAFFEINE, then by all means, go for it and enjoy.

Triggers act differently on different people. For some it's safe, yet for others....it could cause a seizure.

Best advice, know your body and its weaknesses. Your weaknesses will usually tell you what your triggers are, and what to avoid.

From a fellow warrior and friend,
Tom W. Morgan
Researcher in Epileptic Triggers.

March 23
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Yes you can. If you're on Keppra sometimes they may recommend not to have it but officially its not a cause for concern if your sensible about it.

March 23
MyEpilepsyTeam

Can people with epilepsy safely consume caffeine, or does it trigger seizures?

Caffeine can be a potential seizure trigger for some people with epilepsy, especially at higher doses or in susceptible individuals. It's a stimulant that may lower the seizure threshold, making seizures more likely.

Common sources of caffeine Show Full Answer

Can people with epilepsy safely consume caffeine, or does it trigger seizures?

Caffeine can be a potential seizure trigger for some people with epilepsy, especially at higher doses or in susceptible individuals. It's a stimulant that may lower the seizure threshold, making seizures more likely.

Common sources of caffeine include:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soda
- Chocolate
- Energy drinks

However, individual responses vary significantly. Some people with epilepsy can consume moderate amounts of caffeine without issues, while others may be more sensitive.

The main concerns with caffeine include:
- Making the brain more excitable when taken in large amounts
- Potential interference with anti-seizure medications like levetiracetam
- Causing insomnia, which is strongly linked to triggering seizures
- Energy "crashes" after caffeine wears off

Energy drinks pose particular risks because they contain much higher caffeine levels than coffee and can cause dehydration, another known seizure trigger.

If you choose to consume caffeine, moderation is key. Consider alternatives like decaffeinated coffee, tea, or sodas. Green tea in moderation can be a good option with lower caffeine content.

Always discuss your caffeine consumption with your healthcare provider, as they can advise based on your specific situation and medications.

March 23

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