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gmamrj avatar

First seizure.

Epilepsy & Seizures | Last Active: Apr 14 7:50pm | Replies (22)

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@gmamrj
Hi there,
I’m really sorry to hear that you’ve started experiencing seizures. I've been living with them for 59 years now, and I understand how challenging this can be. A friend of mine once asked me, “how many seizures is too many?” and I answered, “I always thought the first one was too many.” Seizures can change your life and be a heavy burden, but you’re not alone in this.

Have you received a diagnosis yet? Are you experiencing Focal seizures, which are sometimes referred to as simple or complex partial seizures, or Generalized seizures, like Tonic-Clonic (formerly known as grand-mal) seizures?

While you navigate this difficult time, I want to encourage you to take some safety precautions. It’s important to avoid driving for the safety of all. If you decide to take a bath, please ensure someone is with you. Though it is uncommon, people have sadly drowned in showers too if they fall and block the drain, and even just a little water can pose a serious risk. Also, be cautious of burns if you fall against the temperature control.

When it comes to cooking, using a microwave can be the safest option. If you’re using the stove, I recommend opting for the back burners. I personally use the microwave most often but like my enclosed grill and air fryer instead of the stove. It's easy for me not to use the stove since I detest cooking.

I noticed you mentioned having sleep, anxiety, or depression issues, which can sometimes trigger seizures in some people. If you’re on any seizure medications, be aware that some may speed up vitamin D metabolism, potentially leading to diminished calcium absorption and conditions like Osteopenia or Osteoporosis. While Keppra is generally thought not to affect vitamin D levels, there have been some studies suggesting it might. It would be a good idea to check with your doctor about having your vitamin D levels assessed.

Additionally, be careful to ensure your refill medications are always from the same manufacturer. Switching between brand names and generics can lead to issues in some people. Most seizure medications can cause drowsiness, but I want to reassure you that this often improves after a few weeks or months.

Take care of yourself, and remember that you don’t have to face this journey alone.
Warm wishes,
Jake

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Replies to "@gmamrj Hi there, I’m really sorry to hear that you’ve started experiencing seizures. I've been living..."

@gmamrj I developed epilepsy 53 years ago and for the most part, on medication, I've been able to live a normal life, now 75. Jake covered many of the items above, some of which I've never considered, and I wanted to add one item. My neurologist told me at first to stay away from alcohol. Then, a few years later, the professor at a major teaching hospital in Phila said.....well, you can have a beer here and there. I was told that alcohol can decrease the effectiveness of meds that can help prevent seizures. So, is it possible alcohol can help cause seizures if you are prone to have one? This is something you may want to check into. Wish you the best.