im 21yo female with history of anxiety/panick attacks, Dr sent me to have EEG because i am always dizzy, the scan showed unstable brain activity – Epileptic, put me on EPILUM 500mg.
However I have never lost consciousness or had a seizure, i just have disorientation or dizzyness even on the meds. Went for second EEG, neuro said im perfectly healthy, unstable activity was noticeable however natural for someone my age during hyperventilation (which they make you do during EEG) however the neorologist cannot prove i dont have epilepsy because im on meds, and to stay on them for a year?!
Because she wont prove i don’t have it, i cannot drive a car because technically they cant do anything????? how can i have epilepsy…. when ive never had an attack? or lapse of consciousness? and if i did have a lapse of consciousness (petit maal) would I know?Also since being on the EPILUM 500mg twice a day, i have become sort of dependant, as it is a mood stabilizer.
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ANSWER:
Thanks for reaching out.
Epilepsy can indeed manifest in forms that do not involve loss of consciousness. One type of seizure that may fit this description is called a “focal seizure,” which can occur with or without impaired awareness (formerly known as complex and simple partial seizures).
Additionally, absence seizures (formerly known as petit mal seizures) typically involve brief lapses in awareness but may not always result in a noticeable loss of consciousness.
Given your description of feeling dizzy and disoriented, it’s understandable why you might be concerned about your diagnosis and treatment.
Absence seizures can sometimes be very subtle, and individuals may not be aware of them occurring at the time. They can last just a few seconds, and someone might not realize they’ve experienced one unless they are informed by someone else who witnessed it.
Here are some considerations regarding your situation:
1. Symptoms and Diagnosis: The symptoms you’re experiencing—dizziness, disorientation—can overlap with many conditions, including anxiety and panic disorders. It’s crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation to differentiate between potential causes.
2. EEG Results: EEGs can show abnormal activity, but interpreting these results can be complex. The presence of unstable brain activity does not definitively indicate epilepsy, especially if your neurologist suggests it could be related to hyperventilation or anxiety.
3. Medication Dependence: It’s important to discuss your experiences on EPILUM (sodium valproate) with your doctor. While this medication can help stabilize mood and potentially reduce seizure activity, if you’re feeling dependent on it for mood stabilization, you should address this concern with your healthcare provider.
4. Driving Regulations: Regulations regarding driving after a diagnosis of epilepsy vary by location, but generally, people are not allowed to drive until they have been seizure-free for a certain period. This is a safety measure to prevent accidents.
5. Seeking Clarity: If you have concerns about your diagnosis or the treatment plan, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another neurologist or an epilepsy specialist. They can provide further insights based on your symptoms and EEG findings.
6. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any episodes of dizziness, disorientation, or any unusual experiences you have. This information can be helpful when discussing your condition with a healthcare provider.
If you have further questions or need clarification on your condition or treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for support and guidance.
Stay safe and wish you well,
Richard Lee Garcia, RN