Different people can have different triggers. Here are some that are common: Missed medication is one of the main reasons for breakthrough seizures in people whose seizures were under control It's important to take seizure medication prescribed by a doctor Lack of sleep can lead to more seizures and increase their intensity and duration Stress can trigger seizures in people with epilepsy Alcohol-related seizures usually occur while alcohol is leaving the body, which can be up to 72 hours after drinking Among women of child-bearing age who have epilepsy, almost half experience increased seizures around their period Not eating well, low blood sugar Specific foods, excess caffeine, or other products that may aggravate seizures Use of certain medications Fevers or other illnesses Flashing bright lights or patterns