Diagnosis in process.....

[Freakedout]

I'm 29 years old and my doctor seems pretty sure that I have epilepsy, but am still waiting on the results from my first EEG and MRI (Apt Friday July 13th... probably an omen huh?) The more research I do, the more likely I think it is true, and it has been happening for about 8 years. Non convulsive seizures, it's almost like I faint, I feel it coming too, nausea, tunnel vision and like my whole body feels numb.... I am out for 3-5mins per my husband, he says my whole body tenses up until I come out of it. when I come out it takes forever to get focused and then I vomit. The next I feel completely awful the next day. Does anyone else have similar symptoms?

I am pretty freaked out about going on any meds because I really want to have more kids. And what if I have one when I'm alone with my 2 year old? I have a great job, but what if I loose my license? Anyone out there have some input? I am listening, thanks!!

[Fedup]

Freakedout

Try not to be freaked out, being pretty sure and sure are two different things although I must say from what you describe it is a possibility, as regards the meds you really have to talk with your GP and neurologist and explain your anxiety and what side effects they could have, they have to listen to you (make them). Some of the lady's would be able to give you better advice, but remember what is best for you as well. Sorry this may not be much help

[Freakedout]

Thanks Fedup... at this point any little bit helps. Its good to know others understand.... I hate feeling like i am not in control of myself you know!

[Cint]

Hi Freakedout,

I've had E for 30+ years now and have two grown children. When I was pregnant with both of them I took Dilantin, and they both turned out fine. Both are college educated now. However, I had my share of problems with seizures and other health problems and was married to a pilot, so my children did witness quite a few seizures (complex partial and tonic clonic) when they were growing up. WE had no family around, so neighbors and friends knew what to do to help and my children did know to call 911 if needed. Kids are resilient and can do what they need to do. And I couldn't drive for years, so had to ask around for rides. You do what you have to do.

Take a deep breath, and remember, you can do this.

[momof3boys]

Please dont freak out. Ive had epilepsy my whole life and have been on medications since. I have three boys, all of whom I took two seizure medications with while pregnant with all. All of them came out healthy! Its ok to be worried. But were all here for you. If you have any questions, were here to help!

[Nakamova]

Hi Freakedout, welcome to CWE!

Best to take it one step at a time. The tests will allow the docs to have a better sense of what is going on. IF you do have epilepsy, there are several different meds to choose from to help control your symptoms. While they very often have side effects, everyone reacts differently, and you may have none at all. (My seizures are currently controlled by Lamictal, with what I would say are tolerably minor side effects). As for having children -- many CWE members can attest to the safety of their medications in terms of pregnancy and childbirth. IF you are diagnosed, and IF you do go on medication, it's a matter of getting informed about the right steps to take ahead of time, and making sure your OB-GYN and neurologist are on the same page.

Regardless of diagnosis, you may find it helpful to keep a journal of your symptoms along with details of when they occur. This can potentially help you to identify any patterns or triggers. (Triggers can be things like fatigue, or certain foods, or fluctuating hormones -- any of a wide variety of physical, physiological, environmental, and emotional variables.)

Feel free to ask more questions as they arise -- CWE members have a wealth of experience and support to offer.

Best,
Nakamova

[LJ-Bain]

Hi there.
I'm sorry that this is happening to you. It must all feel so overwhelming to you.
I have 3 little ones aged 1 1/2 to 6 yrs old.
There are certainly times when I am on the floor and unable to move and be there for them.
The best way that I have found to cope when my eldest is not around is to ensure that my home is as safe as possible at all times. Stairs are blocked off, doors and cupboards cannot be opened, all electrical outlets covered, small teeny tiny toys tucked away...
when I had a warning when my littlest was younger I would even have a playpen to quickly whisk him into. He would cry but he would be safe.

If they take your license it's a difficult adjustment and changes have to be made and favours asked but cint is right...you get through it. And you will get through this.

It's scary but you're not alone.

I hope you get some answers soon and things get on track.

[ladybug1]

im 21 and i have a bf of almost 5 yrs and lately wevr been talking about marriage kids the whole thing. I've even told him about my nervousness about having kids because i would hate to be pregnant and accidentally have a seizure and hurt my child in the womb. we've talked about a "carrier". but i want to be able to carry my 0WN child.

[Sarrita]

Hi, Freakedout. My name is Sarrita & I've been diagnosed as epileptic since, I was 7 months old. Now, it's been over; oh, let's just say, over 25 yrs. My best advice is Don't panic! I know. Easier said than done! Right? And yes, You're right! It Is Easier Said Than DONE! However, I do have, what I hope to be, some helpful insight. First! Try to slow your thoughts down. Stress, can play havoc, if you have siezures. So, WHEN you feel yourself worring; Stop; Slow down; Big, DEEP, Slow Breaths, Calm down. Counting, calmly to 10, as you inhale- Slow & DEEP through your nose & the same calm release through your mouth! Do this 5 times; SLOWLY & Calmly! Remember, you do Not want to hyperventilate! That's not good either! So, Focus!, on Slowly & DEEPLY Breathing in, for the count of 10; & Exhale Calmly & Slowly! That'll help calm you down & possibley your auras/warnings will also slow down! The more you Panic, the Faster your Brain Works/Goes; & visa versa! The Calmer you ARE, the Less/Slower,(speed), your Brain goes or Is At!!...

Second! As far as children goes; Relax! Get the diagnosis. Then discuss possible treat-ment plan(s) & you Wanting to have children with your doc. There are a lot of choices! So, stay CALM. We'll get you through this; one step at a time! Get some rest & Take Good Care of Yourself! See? You're taking the first step already! GREAT JOB!...



Sincerely,
Sarrita

[Freakedout]

Wow! Thank you all for positive insight and advice. It's a great help! These last few weeks have made me feel so unsure and confused, you all have really helped me feel a little more confident about management of this condition.

**Truly appreciative**

[julie wishes]

If I had it to do it over

This is helpful. Hopefully not overwhelming.

[Freakedout]

Thank you Juls, this will help at my next appointment, kind of give an outline on questions to ask steps to take!

[aggy84]

Hey!
I've JUST been confirmed with complex partial seizures. I'm 27 and have been having what GPS said were anxiety/panic attacks for years. I've just lost my driving license and i've just been put on Keppra. I'm on 250mg and increase to 500mg tomorrow. I'm so scared as Ive heard so many tales about Keppra - but trying to remain positive.
Its soo tough waiting about but honestly the people on this forum make you feel like you have the support. Unless you have epilepsy its so tough to understand it. This is the best network around.
Chin up hun, I'm trying to work out my triggers and how I can make lifestyle changes to help manage mine. Keep in touch.

[Freakedout]

Hi there.
I'm sorry that this is happening to you. It must all feel so overwhelming to you.
I have 3 little ones aged 1 1/2 to 6 yrs old.
There are certainly times when I am on the floor and unable to move and be there for them.
The best way that I have found to cope when my eldest is not around is to ensure that my home is as safe as possible at all times. Stairs are blocked off, doors and cupboards cannot be opened, all electrical outlets covered, small teeny tiny toys tucked away...
when I had a warning when my littlest was younger I would even have a playpen to quickly whisk him into. He would cry but he would be safe.

If they take your license it's a difficult adjustment and changes have to be made and favours asked but cint is right...you get through it. And you will get through this.

It's scary but you're not alone.

I hope you get some answers soon and things get on track.

LJ- I know your children are young but have you found a way to help them understand your seizures? How do they handle them? I have been lucky enough that I have not been alone with my son when I have had them, but I'd like your opinion on how to "explain" it to them?

aggy84- Sounds like your doing great at staying positive!! Thanks for your input!! Best of luck!