The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.

new to site

Mon, 06/19/2006 - 15:31
I am new to this site. My 15 year old son has just been diagnosed with epilepsy and I am hoping to learn more about it and to make some friends that will understand what I am dealing with! He has had a rough time, but seems to be doing better the last few days. Anyone have any ideas on how I can stop being so nervous about him when he is out of my sight? I know that he has to have a life and he has told all his friends what to do if he has a seizure. He also carries a card in his wallet with instructions and phone numbers. I am just still edgy about everything. It is very new and I have little knowledge of epilepsy. Thanks for listening! Karen

Comments

Re: new to site

Submitted by spiz on Tue, 2006-06-20 - 01:41
Karen, Hello and welcome! I can certainly understand with this all being so new but you have come to the right place. This site is full of friendly, helpful folk that will help you however they can. I would certainly check into a medical bracelet or necklace for him. The necklace isn't so noticable. The one I have has what looks like a slim cylander that you can look into like you would a kaladiascope and see the information. Listed on the info panel is my diagnosis(epilepsy), my name,emergency phone number, meds and dosages, doctor's name and number. The medic alert symbol can be an important eye catcher in an emergency situation. Another thing you might consider if he isn't already, is keeping a journal of his seizures, possible triggers (http://www.epilepsy.com/epilepsy/provoke_seizure.html )and it wouldn't hurt to include the weather conditions or any other factor not listed in the link that he may feel might have contributed, if any. A good link to go to that may help you with questions that you or your son may have is: http://www.epilepsy.com/epilepsy/research_articles.html This site is full of excellant information. Again, welcome! -Spiz

Re: new to site

Submitted by HeatherOverton on Tue, 2006-06-20 - 09:38
I agree with Spiz about the log and also make sure he wears a bracelet of some sort. I found a pretty one on laurenshope.com, there are guy ones on there also. This is very important for him to wear in the event that the ambulance is called they will have all of his info right there. Most of the time they don't think to look through a wallet. Also since I was once a teen with epilepsy I know how stressful it can be so try not to hover over him. Let him be a teenager and go out with his friends. Make sure he surrounds himself with people who care and will take care of him if he would have a seizure. Best of luck to the both of you. Heather "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." Maya Angelou

Re: Re: new to site

Submitted by perumom137 on Tue, 2006-06-20 - 17:54
Thanks for your warm welcome and advice. I really appreciate it. I will look into getting a bracelet so he is protected. I will check out those sites and keep educating myself about epilepsy. Karen

Sign Up for Emails

Stay up to date with the latest epilepsy news, stories from the community, and more.