Autism and Seizures: What You Need to Know

If you or someone you love has autism, you may have heard that seizures are more common in this group. That’s true – about one in ten people with autism will have a seizure at some point. Understanding why seizures happen, how to spot them, and what to do about them can make a big difference in safety and quality of life.

How to Recognize a Seizure in Autism

Seizures don’t always look the same. Some people have a brief loss of awareness, while others may stiffen, shake, or have sudden jerky movements. In autism, a seizure might be mistaken for a sensory overload or a behavior change, so it helps to know the key signs:

• Staring blankly for more than a few seconds
• Sudden limpness or falling
• Uncontrollable shaking of arms or legs
• Odd smells, tastes, or visual flashes
• Brief confusion after the event

If a seizure lasts longer than five minutes or you can’t wake the person, call emergency services right away. Even short seizures deserve a medical check, especially if they happen more than once.

Common Triggers and How to Reduce Them

People with autism often have sensitivities that can set off a seizure. Bright lights, loud noises, sudden temperature changes, and even missed meals can be triggers. Keeping a simple log of daily activities, foods, and sleep patterns can help you spot patterns. Here are a few practical steps:

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule – lack of sleep is a top trigger.
• Use dim lighting during screen time and avoid flashing lights.
• Offer a calm, low‑stimulus environment when you sense stress.
• Stick to a balanced diet and avoid skipping meals.

When you notice a specific trigger, try to modify the environment or routine before a seizure occurs. Small changes can have a big impact.

Medication is another piece of the puzzle. Some anti‑epileptic drugs (AEDs) interact with common autism‑related meds, so always ask a doctor or pharmacist about possible interactions. For example, certain ADHD stimulants may lower the seizure threshold, while some antidepressants can increase it. Your healthcare team can choose a drug that balances seizure control with the other medications you’re already taking.

Aside from prescription meds, lifestyle measures help a lot. Regular exercise, even a short walk each day, supports brain health. Stress‑reduction techniques such as deep breathing, guided imagery, or a favorite calming activity can lower the chance of a seizure.

When a seizure does happen, stay calm. Gently guide the person away from dangerous objects, turn them onto their side to keep the airway clear, and time the episode. Do not hold them down or put anything in their mouth. After the seizure, let them rest and check in about how they feel.

Finally, know when to get professional help. If seizures happen more than once, change in pattern, or are accompanied by new symptoms like confusion or weakness, schedule a neurology appointment. A doctor may order an EEG, MRI, or blood tests to pinpoint the cause and tailor treatment.

Living with autism and seizures can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Reliable information, a good support team, and a few practical habits go a long way toward safety and confidence.