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My Dad - Hand Tremors etc..

Tue, 01/31/2017 - 13:40
Hey, My dad was diagnosed with epilepsy from 18 years old, he is now 61. Previously he had tonic clonic seizures however these were sparse and he was maintained on Epilim. In the past three years, we noticed his epilepsy had began to change. He hasn't had a clonic seizure - that has been witnessed, or signs that he has had one when alone. He now seems to have focal seizures. Whilst having a seizure his eyes will remain open and he is conscious although he is unable to fully communicate - most usually making 'mmm' noises and sniffing. The seizures do not last long, up one minute or two at a push. When he is coming out of the seizure he will be rambling and not making sense, however he goes back to 'normal' pretty quickly. If we advise him of the seizure he has no memory of this and cannot pin point a trigger. Since his seizures has changed, his Epilim has been increased to the highest daily dose and he has been commenced on Keppra - also the highest daily dose due to the frequency of the seizures. Since starting Keppra I have noticed that my dad has a tremor in both hands, and arms. Visibly shaking as if he has walked across the arctic - it is pretty bad. The doctor has advised this is a side effect of the medication and not to worry however he is a barber by trade. I have also noticed his memory seems to be deteriorating - asking the same questions and repeating the same stories. Previously, my dad has always been quick tempered, yet he can lose his cool within seconds and become really quite intimidating and aggressive - most likely in stores/on calls. I am just wondering if these side effects are common or should we return back to the doctor? As mentioned he did not have a hand tremor prior to commencing on Keppra, and this almost looks as 'bad' as someone who suffers from Parkinsons? I understand epilepsy impacts the brain and especially over the years of having grand and petit mal seizures. Do other people suffer from memory loss and quick changes in behaviour? I wouldn't say my dad is depressed, however he does not live alone and is not the most social of people outwith his work environment. Much appreciated, I know this is a long read :)

Comments

Hi, i take epilim in a large

Submitted by Mikey3617 on Sat, 2017-04-08 - 20:09
Hi, i take epilim in a large dose and suffer the same side effects although judging from your post not as badly. Next time u speak to your doc ask if there is anything you can do regarding the shakes i got given a series of hand exercises to do i was sceptical but tried it and it does help although u do need to do them religiously and dont expect a miracle in a week. The shakes can sometimes get worse when stressed but day to day improved. Hope this a little bit of help

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