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Driving & Epilepsy

Wed, 10/26/2005 - 14:01
Hi Everyone I am 17 and I am really wanting to get my drivers licscence. I have had epilepsy since I was 14 years old. I have had seizures off and on throughout the time being diagnosed. I am on seizure medicine right now and I have not currently had any seizures. The last time I had a seizure, was a grand mal in September. My doctor has me on 1500mg of Depakote and says that everything should be alright. So far so good. Should I start driving?

Comments

For Erin

Submitted by jennyc on Wed, 2005-10-26 - 16:52
Hi Erin, I am from the UK and unfortunately you need to be seizure free for 1 year. I had a Grand Mal in August and I can't drive until August next year. However, I know this varies in different parts of the world. You would need to check with your DVLA to find out for sure. Fingers crossed that you remain seizure free and can finally learn to drive. Best of luck...... Jenny

Re: Driving & Epilepsy

Submitted by david morrison on Tue, 2005-12-06 - 21:00
im 39 now i was diagnosed in 98 in that time i was banned from driveing more times than i care to remember i believe u can and should get your lic as long as u take precoutions

Re: Driving & Epilepsy

Submitted by angel_lts on Wed, 2005-12-07 - 09:44
In my opinion, I think people should wait at least a year. I know some areas in the US are only 3 months, which I think is rediculous. My sister also has epilepsy besides myself. SHe had an accident about 35 years ago and killed a little girl. SO you must be sure when you drive you are not sick, for that can bring on a seizure. You are not changing meds,....... Just be careful and be safe. Lisa http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/epilepsyapproach/

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