New here, possible diagnosis of autonomic seizures

[Ramjet]

For the past two 1/2 years I have been having periodic episodes of intense sweating. These events occur approximately every 28 days, and have included as few as 4 and as many as 18 separate episodes during a 24 hour period. They then stop until returning about 28 days later. The shortest interval between events has been 23 days, the longest 34. Recently it was suggested that these may be due to autonomic seizures. They now want to do a 7 day ambulatory EEG test to confirm the diagnosis and then recommend a possible treatment. I am concerned about the cost of this test, as one indication I was given was that it could cost $3,000 per day. Not sure, even with my insurance, if I can afford that kind of bill. They want to start the test at the 23 day mark (December 30th), and possibly run 7 days, or until an event occurs.

Has anyone had an ambulatory EEG and can share an idea of the cost?

[mandie8]

I did have one of these devices a few years back. I remember I was one of the first patients in the southern region of the US, and there was a big to-do about that. I'm not sure now, but back then, it was cheaper than an MRI, and my husband's insurance did cover it, the same as it would any other EEG. They strap a device on to your head, it doesn't hurt, just a little uncomfortable. Run a wire from it down your arm, and let you go on. It is so they can monitor what is happening around the clock, except for the brief time you are at your appointment. I remember it at the time as being fairly inexpensive, and my husband, who at the time had Blue Cross Blue Shield, (those were the days), had no problems through his insurance company. Never hurts to ask just to be sure though. Good luck!

[Ramjet]

I am hearing it may cost up to $3,000 per day!

[mandie8]

It's best to talk with your doctor, and insurance company. If they don't know exactly whats going on with you, they need to know how to best treat it. If you're already under insurance for these problems, there shouldn't be too much of a hassle if your doctor feels that it is needed. The way it was explained to me, of course, that has been well over 10 years ago, is that MRIs were being improved everyday, with the open MRIs, and technology added. I had by that time had so many MRIs, and plus, I usually had a seizure late at night, so this was the dr.'s solution, and it was suppose to be more inexpensive. That was back then, but, with the economy up in the air as it has been, and so much needed to help those who suffer epilepsy, you will probably find it want be as costly as you think. I do hope you the best, and wish you didn't have to worry on top of everything else. Try not to worry too much, until you find out.