A recent clinical study from University College London (UCL) suggests that heatwaves may be linked to increased abnormal brain activity in people with epilepsy.

This discovery was made when a group of patients undergoing intracranial electroencephalography (icEEG) testing at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery were being monitored for surgery between May and August over a seven-year period. The icEEG procedure tracks brain activity by placing small electrodes inside the brain to measure electrical impulses.

During the study, several heatwaves occurred – at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures above 28°C. Researchers were able to compare brain activity and seizures during these heatwaves with periods of normal temperature.

The results showed more frequent seizures and abnormal brain activity during the heat waves. Lead author, Professor Sanjay Sisodiya from UCL’s Queen Square Institute of Neurology, explained:

“Our research indicates that for some people with severe epilepsy, higher temperatures can increase the likelihood of seizures. This is one of the first pieces of evidence showing that heatwaves can worsen epilepsy in certain individuals.”

Although the study involved just nine patients due to the limited use of icEEG, Sisodiya and his team plan to expand their research. He also stressed the importance of understanding the impact of rising temperatures on neurological conditions, especially in light of his recent review of studies on climate change and brain diseases.

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