Hello! New here...

[Kiddo]

I am a 48 year old woman. Had my first seizure in July while home alone. Had been battling a migraine for a few days so I was not sleeping well. On the final day of the migraine I started feeling better around noon. No more headache. Had the seizure around 3:30. Took quite some time to realize where I was, etc... Went to ER when hubby got home around 5:00. Exhausted, headache back... Recovered from the confusion but was then transferred to the big city by ambulance. Saw neurologist on call and was then sent home. EEG scheduled for September, MRI scheduled for August and Neurologist scheduled for January.
When I went for my MRI last Thursday, I had my second seizure during the MRI. This time witnessed by hubby, tech and a Dr. Lots of confusion. Year? President? Took some time to become less muddle-headed and recover. Was then cleared to go home. Exhausted and sore... On Friday the Neurologist put me on Keppra and said they will reschedule the MRI as it was incomplete.
The first few days on the meds have been interesting. Saturday was sleepy, yesterday still sleepy and dizzy, but better. Today still sleepy but better. I am optimistic about the meds.
I am however, concerned about the next MRI. The nurse assured me they would try for an open and prescribe some sedative.
My husband has been fantastic! My dog is also very helpful as he alerted me to my first seizure (unbeknownst to me that's what he was doing at he time...) I found it a challenge on the boat this weekend having just started the meds. I hope that gets better as I love being on the water.
We also travel extensively. I hope this does not interfere...
My triggers seem to be lack of sleep and/or stress from what I can tell so far.
I have been trying to do as much research online as possible and have found it very helpful.
Any input would be appreciated!!

 

[Nakamova]

Hey Kiddo, welcome to CWE!

I can't believe you won't be seeing a neuro until January! Who will you be meeting with to discuss the results of the MRi and EEG?

I guess 5 months will give you plenty of time to prepare a medical history for the neurologist... It's definitely relevant that you have a history of migraines -- migraine is a close cousin of epilepsy, and some migraine symptoms may actually be Partial Seizures. You might want to make a note of any triggers for you migraines, as they may also play a role in triggering your seizures. Fatigue and stress are the biggies in terms of triggers, but other things like hormone fluctuations, food sensitivities, infections, medications, etc. can also play a role.

I hope you are starting to feel better from the seizures. The soreness and confusion is normal (unfortunately), but you will heal. Be gentle with yourself until you do. And please feel free to ask questions here -- arming yourself with information is one of the best ways to cope, particularly when the seizures are new and the diagnosis feels overwhelming.

Best,
Nakamova

 

[Kiddo]

Nakamova,
Thank you for your input! I was surprised at the delay also. It made me feel foolish for being scared. Since the second seizure the urgency was stepped up a bit. The nurse at the neuro's office said they would most likely move the consult appointment up but would probably wait until both tests are completed.
I'm still scared at times ("what if it happens at the store" etc...) But the further I get from a seizure the less afraid I am. The less fresh it is in my mind the easier it is to not focus on it.
Yes, I figure this time I have before seeing the Dr. is good for reflection, etc... on triggers, nutrition, tolerances and such. And to develop a diary.
I find I don't wait as long to medicate a headache now! And when I am tired I don't push the limit - I try to get a nap or to bed early.
Now that my husband has witnessed one and knows what to do, I feel less scared going out as long as I am with him.
This is all so strange and frightening. But I know I am blessed in so many ways! My husband does not mind at all my being more needy and clingy! I am very lucky to have him in my life!