Hello I just joined this forum so I don't know if you have talked about this yet. I was reading that anti-convulsants (sp? LOL) often cause stomach problems because they stop the brain the seizuring they also stop the natural movement in the stomach which makes for a happy tummy. I have had epilepsy since I was 12 and am now 50 and have had stomach problems all of my life and I was wondering if anyone had good experiences with diet that could help to lessen the negative effects. Thanks and hello to everyone.
Epival and stomach problems
- Thread starter elis
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Hi elsi --
Here are some of the listed stomach-related Epival side effects:
abdominal or stomach cramps (mild)
constipation or diarrhea
flatulence (gas)
indigestion or heartburn
loss of appetite
nausea and vomiting
unusual weight loss or gain
The right dietary approach would depend a bit on which of the above side effects you are experiencing. If constipation is a problem, foods high in fiber and magnesium might help, as well as a magnesium supplement -- but best to check with your doctor first. It's worth a chat with your regular doc and/or neuro to see what they recommend.
Here are some of the listed stomach-related Epival side effects:
abdominal or stomach cramps (mild)
constipation or diarrhea
flatulence (gas)
indigestion or heartburn
loss of appetite
nausea and vomiting
unusual weight loss or gain
The right dietary approach would depend a bit on which of the above side effects you are experiencing. If constipation is a problem, foods high in fiber and magnesium might help, as well as a magnesium supplement -- but best to check with your doctor first. It's worth a chat with your regular doc and/or neuro to see what they recommend.
Thanks Nakamova, the problem is that I have just has ongoing stomach problems literally since I was a teen. Constipation and diarrhea, gas, cramping etc. I have had my gall bladder removed because of gall stones etc. my neuro just says that the drugs are hard on the system but it is a trade off for not having seizures. I can't eat high fibre though or I am in agony and it is really hard for me to eat raw veggies or too high of fat. I was just wondering if anyone had any luck at figuring out a diet that they were successful with because though Epival and Topiramate is working really well to maintain my seizures and I am not gaining too much weight on it, I am finding it harder and harder to find foods I can tolerate.
