Extreme Heat + Poor Air Quality + Seizures + Medication 

Many wildfires burning, also air quality can be a challenge for many, so i thought i'd do a write up about it.
I live in British Columbia, Canada and the air quality due to wildfire smoke has not been great, seriously, including here in Vancouver, Metro Vancouver, sometimes worse in North Vancouver and the Fraser Valley last couple days.  
 I did some research and here is what I've learnt:

• Please note, everyone is affected differently,  DO NOT compare your health to anothers , your care is as individual and as unique as you are.  
 
Poor air quality, such as smoke from wildfires or smog, can stress the body and lower the seizure threshold, for some people with epilepsy. Health Canada notes that anti-seizure medications do not directly interact with air pollution, but extreme heat and poor air quality can worsen underlying  neurological conditions or increase dehydration risks.

 Air Quality and Seizure Risks

• Trigger Stress: Heavy smog or wildfire smoke cause systematic inflammation and respiratory stress.
• Lowered Threshold: Physical stress from difficulty breathing can indirectly trigger breakthrough seizures in sensitive individuals. 
• Medication Side Effects: Some anti-seizure medications can impare the body's ability to regulate the temperature during hot, polluted days.

 Protection Steps 

• Check the air quality health index daily ( AQHI).
• If all possible, stay in air-conditioned spaces during high-pollution events. 
• Keep hydrated and take your medication as perscibed.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT stop taking your medication without speaking to your personal health care provider and or neurologist!

Here is something I've found on the Health Canada website regarding Extreme Heat and Human Health 
 https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/healthy-living/extreme-heat-human-health-pharmacists-technicians.html

Aug. 6, 2026
Lorrie Blog admin