Hello - new here!

[fifi74]

Hi fifi --

I think temporal lobe epilepsy is more closely associated with memory issues, although the meds can definitely play a role as well. You might want to ask your neurologist about doing a neuropsych exam in order to get a baseline measure of where your cognitive skills are now. That way it's easier to track the effects and get a handle on whether they are seizure-related or med-related. (I'll be having a neuropsych exam at the end of this month. I wish I'd had one done when my seizures first started, because then I'd have a clearer sense of how my brain has changed over the last ten years.) Better late than never I guess.

Hi Nakamova,

The neuropsych exam is a great idea. I'll definitely speak to my neurologist about that so I can get a baseline cognitive measurement. Good luck with your test! Gee this site is brilliant for peer support! Thanks!

[fifi74]

Glad to hear that you have an answer...but I agree...in a way, it's a sad moment too...Just think though, with an answer comes a plan more targeted for you.

Thanks Skillefer. Yes you are so right, and that's exactly what I have to keep foremost in my mind. I know that there are so many people who don't get the luxury of finding the exact source of their epilepsy, so in that way I am very lucky. I'm also a little scared that I'm going to have another tonic-clonic while I'm on my own (the neurologist said that's a very real possibility until they get the meds right), but I need to get over that fear too.

[skillefer]

I have tonic clonics. And yes, they can be scary. What amazes me...now that I'm married and seem to constantly have people around...is how I managed when I was single. But it is possible! Follow your docs advice, and on top of the meds, make sure that your keeping your journal, getting plenty of sleep, and avoiding stress and other triggers. And don't worry. The stress from worry can be just as harmful.