Epilepsy and MS

[The Dude]

Has anyone here with epilepsy developed multiple sclerosis later on in life? I was diagnosed with generalized tonic clonic seizures 32 years ago back when they were just scratching the surface of what goes on in the brain but there was never a diagnosed cause. No head injuries no lack of oxygen at birth ect granted there is "anecdotal evidence on my fathers side" that it may be hereditary it has not been proven. So at the age of 34 I start asking why. Some may say I've been watching too much House M.D. I have however been studying causes of my seizures and there are some crossover symptoms with MS. Yes I WILL be talking to my DR. about this next time I see him in a couple of weeks. I am just curious if anyone here has been diagnosed later on in life with MS after having has a seizure disorder for the bulk of their life. I am entertaining the possibility that I may have been misdiagnosed by my pediatric neurologist and it's just been a pass the buck diagnosis from then on into adulthood. I've had MRI's and they have not been abnormal but I have also had an increase in grand mal's over the last 6 years or so. It is my understanding that MS is more prevalent in people in their 20's and 30's. I figure that 32 years later with advances in medicine and what they know about the brain it's just one of those things that make you go hmm? Anyone have any personal experience with this sort of thing. I mean at this point it's "just epilepsy" and no one has ever considered why in my case anyway.

 

[Nakamova]

Seizures can be one symptom of MS but it's relatively rare (seizures are experienced by about 5% of MS patients), and they tend to occur after the onset of MS. It would be unusual for it to be the only MS symptom for such a long time. But if you've been experiencing some of the other MS symptoms, then it's definitely worth trying to rule it in or out. The usual test is an MRI to look for lesions.

Interesting to see if any other CWE members have ended up with an MS diagnosis...

 

[The Dude]

I know I am curious to see if any other CWE members have ended up with an MS diagnosis... I see my Doc on the 22nd and will try and remember to give an update with his $.02 after the appointment. A part of my concern is that 5% is greater than that of many serious side effects of the different AED's that my Dr and I have spoken about. For the immediate treatment we will be adding Lyrica to my med cocktail. A med treatment that has not yet been approved for my type of seizure. It is a Phizer study. Double blind and off label.