New to seizures

ajantzak · #1 12-07-2011, 04:32 PM

Hi everyone,

I just started having seizures this summer. I was getting ready to have hip surgery done, and about three weeks before, had a grand mal. First one in my life.

I went to the ER, where my current neurologist saw me, and had tests done. There's some sort of brain damage, but we're still trying to figure out exactly what. I have had concussions before, some due to trauma.

Anyway, I'm on Lamictal, and have been for years for other medical reasons. (My poor memory at this time has caused me to forget exactly what for). Just got my blood levels taken, and they came back low.

I am still having seizures on a regular basis, though not as bad as the first.

I don't have a diagnosis of epilepsy currently, but am hoping that I can get advice and support here.

Thanks!
Angie

**Nakamova** · #2 12-07-2011, 04:52 PM

Hi Angie, welcome to CWE!

I'm sorry you're dealing with this on top of hip surgery and other medical issues. Have you talked with your neurologist about options for improving your seizure control? Will you be increasing your Lamictal dose?

Best,
Nakamova

ajantzak · #3 12-07-2011, 05:13 PM

Thanks for responding!

Honestly, he said he was a little stumped about some of my symptoms that seem to be happening at the same time as the seizures, for example, my left hand and forearm goes numb. So we haven't gotten much farther than to get my blood levels taken.

But my Lamictal will probably go up some.

I am just incredibly frustrated, because my hip went out in June, so I haven't been driving since then. I would be now if I hadn't had the seizure.

I feel bad for my friends and family that have been driving me to work, doctor's appointments, and everywhere else. They are sympathetic, and stand behind me 100%, but I hate having them have to work their schedules around me.

**Nakamova** · #4 12-07-2011, 05:20 PM

Quote :

They are sympathetic, and stand behind me 100%, but I hate having them have to work their schedules around me.

It's hard to feel dependent. But I bet your friends and family are taking care of you because you give back to them in other ways.

ajantzak · #5 12-07-2011, 05:22 PM

I hope so. And work has been really good to me.

I think the loss of independence is really getting to me. I was bedrest both before and for a while after the surgery, and this has also complicated things.

It's hard to know what stressers are getting to me, and what to avoid.