Epilepsy? Lights in vision etc...

[LiamC]

Hello

My problem began 2 weeks ago when I began to see a small flickering light in the left hand side of my vision. This would usually appear in roughly the same place and would occur once every 10 - 30 minutes or so, lasting for 10 - 20 seconds approximately. This went on for a week or so, prompting me to see my GP, who diagnosed these as Migraine symptoms. He prescribed me some Paramax, which is essentially just a mixture of Paracetamol and something else that stops you from feeling sick.

Anyway the lights continued every day until last Thursday, when I had just got into work. A colleague started talking to me, when suddenly this bright light filled my whole eye sight and I couldn't concentrate on what he was saying. After this, the next thing I remember is waking up on the floor with paramedics and my colleagues standing around me. Apparently I'd fallen, banged my head on the wall and had a fit on the floor. I was then taken to Hospital, given the usual tests and then sent home, being promised an appointment with the neurology department sometime in the next week.

Unfortunately my body wouldn't wait for this. At 3am on Saturday morning, I had a fit in my sleep, prompting my family to once again call an Ambulance. I was very confused when I first woke up! This time in the Hospital I made it past the A&E department and was transferred to the Medical Assessment Unit, where a number of tests etc were carried out. This time things were happening for me. They eventually prescribed me some Sodium Valproate and told me to take one 200mg tablet twice per day.

It's now two days later and Ive had no more fits. I'm still getting the light in my vision, although it has now moved to the right hand side of my vision. I'm now awaiting my appointment with the Neurology department.

The thing that scares me most about this whole thing is losing my Driving License. My independence is everything to me.

Anyone got any thoughts?
Thanks.

[legalgirl5]

Liam,

I am not an expert but I do have a seizure disorder.  I am just starting to find the correct dosage. I was kindly asked by my Neurologist to "not drive".  I have complied with this request, partialy because I gave my word and partially because I am afraid of something happening and hurting an innocent person.  

This has been the HARDEST adjustment so far in my life.  I miss my independance and I HATE having to rely on other people.  Unfortunately for me, until further notice I will do as requested.

I try to maintain a good attitude and think about things other than my problems..Does not always work!

My doctor has not turned me in..to DMV or anything like that.  I think the hospital is required to though.  I have no idea if you will loose your driving privelege but there is a pretty good chance.

Honestly though...from what you have said...It might be a good idea to take a small sabatical from driving until you know "what is happening" and you know that your safe as well as other people; when your behind the wheel.  

Good luck and I hope it is nothing but a small issue.
Susie

[LiamC]

It's also worth noting that the light has changed over the last week from being on the left hand side to now being on the right. It has also become less frequent.

[LiamC]

It's also worth noting that the light has changed over the last week from being on the left hand side to now being on the right. It has also become less frequent.