Subject: Re: Adult-onset epilepsy
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum

Topic Area: Epilepsy

Recently, I've been experiencing episodes of brief black-outs or blank-outs as I become unaware of stimuli for 2-5 seconds. Usually this is accompanied by a sensation similar to going over a roller-coaster (except that I have that sensation in my head). These blank-outs have been observed by others and described as though I am day-dreaming. I am a 37 yo female in otherwise pretty good health.

Other symptoms include:
*aversion to bright, flashing lights (painful)
*decreased sense of smell
*wake up with one side of face drawn up into a snarl (right side)
*left upper eyelid twitching (last month) especially after sneezing
*sensation on right side of face like water running down my cheek
*pain on top of head (always same spot)
*change in personality (iritable, hurried, impatient)
*sometimes difficulty with speaking (hard to articulate words at times)

So far, I've been told this sounds like petit mal seizure activity but undertermined as yet the cause of these "seizures". Does this sound right? So far, I have had a CT without contrast (don't know results) and am awaiting EEG testing. The doctor has put my Epivac, but after a few days, my hair was falling out a LOT. Will this go on with the use of this medication?

Does this sound like epilepsy-type activity?

Thank you for your input - it is appreciated!!

Be aware that not all "spells" represent epilepsy. Indeed, some characteristics of what you describe are similar to absence seizures, but absence epilepsy is usually a childhood onset disorder. Alternatively, the possibility of complex partial seizures must not be overlooked, since those can come on at any age for a variety of reasons.

I am not convinced that your episodes have anything to do with epilepsy. Some of the associated symptoms argue against it. The most important step is to be seen by a competent neurologist who can get precise details from you. Be prepared to provide your observations when asked, and bring along with you someone who has seen some of these spells and can be articulate.

An EEG is in fact appropriate, but don't be surprised if it is normal. It is only one tool, the most important tool is the neurologist's experience and your own observations.

I hope this helps. CCF MD mdf.

Follow Ups:

• Adult-onset epilepsy BJ 7/28/1999 (3)
  • Re: Adult-onset epilepsy CCF MD mdf 7/28/1999 (2)
    • Adult-onset epilepsy B 8/12/1999 (1)
      • Re: Adult-onset epilepsy CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS 8/12/1999 (0)

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