Appointment with the Specialist

[recall92]

Hey everyone. I am very pleased that my epilepsy has gotten better. I have an appointment to see the neurologist in the month of August. He is private so it will cost $320. I am unsure if I should see him or not. I was referred by my GP to see the public neurologist and he gave me medication and the neurologist has referred me back to my GP and told him to deal with me however, my GP is unsure what to do and if I should play rugby or lift weights so that is why I have decided to go see a private neurologist. I am currently on Epilim, 1500mg in the morning and 1000mg at night. This is my seizure record since I have started medication
Feb 16 Seizures (1 tonic clonic, 15 Complex Partials)
mar 28 Seizures (24 Complex Partials, 4 Simple Partials)
Apr 25 Seizures (17 Complex Partials, 8 Simple Partials)
May 22 Seizures (19 Complex Partials, 3 Simple Partials)
June 8 Seizures (8 Complex Partials)
July 1 so far to this date (1 Complex Partial)

I have just decided to do heavy weights and it feels like it just isn't a trigger because I have less seizures now then I did when I wasn't doing weights. I honestly feel my trigger was anxiety and stress. I.E I would think "oh no its gona happen" or "Why would u do something so stupid like that" then it would happen.

Well I hope everything goes well but do you guys think I should go see this private neurologist? or save the $320 and hope the pills will continue to improve my epilepsy. Thank you very much.

[epileric]

My personal opinion is that if there's a chance of improving your present situation the money is worth it.

After having so many useless neurologists though I've learned to think of the situation as paying for the possibility of getting better rather than paying to get better.

As far as working out goes, I've found the same thing- that after routinely going to the gym for a while my seizures did lessen in frequency & intensity yet I had more energy.

[recall92]

I guess I stayed away from the gym because the neurologist (public) said heavy weights could interfere with the medication improving my situation and I would have to wait many years until I could get another shot for Epilim to work so I was afraid my seizures could not get fixed

[PhylisFeinerJohnson]

Studies have shown that physical activity can decrease seizure frequency, as well as lead to improved cardiovascular and psychological health in people with epilepsy.

Exercise, especially aerobic exercise, clearly benefits people with epilepsy because it often reduces seizure frequency, relieves depression, reduces social isolation, and promotes cardiac and general health.

[Nakamova]

I would think that as long as you are conscientious about nutrition, hydration, and rest while doing your exercise routine, it shouldn't interfere with your meds. It's unusual for your public neurologist to have ruled out the weightlifting. That might be another reason to see the private specialist, just to get his opinion on that issue.