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How does one ask for a second test?

Tue, 08/01/2006 - 15:18
As you know, I've been diagnosed with partial seizures, mostly simple partial but some complex partial. I had one 20 minute EEG, which came out normal. I had an MRI, which came out normal except for a tiny 2.6mm cyst on the right side (the neuro was really specific as to where it was, but I don't recall what he said). Nothing in my test results indicates a cause to the seizures, and I want to know if there is one. I came off the Keppra two weeks ago, but we're going to try it again. Is it appropriate to ask for a second EEG? A longer one? I'm not sure I want a vEEG, but I wouldn't mind undergoing one for longer than 20 minutes. I want to know where the problem is coming from, and my neuro hasn't suggested looking into it. I know that the same brain can produce both a normal AND an abnormal EEG, since my oldest sister has had both. Redoing an MRI would be useless, since the one I had was a fairly high resolution one. Would I talk to my Neuro or my family doc? Do I wait for my next appt (Sept. 8) or do I call and ask? My neuro was really behind today and sort of rushed me out the door. Stupid me, I forgot my journal of what seizures I had and when as well as my list of things to ask.

Comments

Re: How does one ask for a second test?

Submitted by angel_lts on Sat, 2006-08-05 - 08:13
First of all always have a list of questions with you when you go to the doctor. The doctor is suppose to see you in a limited amount of time. I dont know if it is a half hour or forty five minutes. That is the time my doctor always gives me. You are better off with the neuro. The family doctor will just tell you to go see the neuro. Depending on your insurance that could be a problem too. You might just need to extend the time between the two. But check with the insurance company first. Lisa http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/epilepsyapproach/

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