nightowl47
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Hello all,
As you all know by now, or if you don't, you will soon...we with Epilepsy are not to take any over the counter meds for Allergies, Cold, Flu and Sinus. Simple reason is that they have certain types of ingredients that may cause you to have a seizure.
For years when I have taken any, (despite the fact that I was aware of what could happen, I just didn't want to run into the doctor's office each time) I put myself on that big old roulette wheel hoping I wouldn't have a seizure. Well for the past couple of weeks, I have been dealing with awful head congestion that seems to be sticking around. Well, as it would have it, I have been taking Alka Seltzer congestion liquid gels that are the non-drowsy only and one at a time from a two pack. Now as my luck would have it, I started developing strange bouts similar to a stroke. Finally, I did the best thing I could do for myself and went to my General Practitioner and I'm glad I did.
First off, I had a sinus infection only treatable with antibiotics, then we discussed the meds above. She expressed to me, maybe a few days but never for five or more, as Alka Seltzer constricts the blood vessels, makes your heart beat faster and also can cause your blood pressure to go up 20-30 points. It can also cause a stroke, who knew??
So she put me on Coricidan HBP (for high blood pressure) which is safer for colds & Flu. These can only be received behind the counter at drug store.
It is a shame that with all the meds no one has developed a drug for those with Epilepsy. I'm curious as to what others have been doing as well. I would love to hear any comments.
Terri