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Epilepsy medication & side effects on men

Wed, 03/04/2020 - 02:43
Dilantin/Phenytoin side effects Hi I've been using Dilantin for about 3 years now since turning 40 as Dilantin is rarely given to younger people in Australia. Ive found Dilantin to be an excellent anti seizure medication for controlling my TLE that I developed in my early 20s. As with all AED I've started to notice symptoms/side effects, hip and shoulder pain bursitis & swelling fluid in the foreskin no redness or pain, no sexual partners. Just like to know if any other males have experienced these symptoms from Dilantin or other AEDs. PS I did see a section for women with epilepsy on the site just seems a bit sexist not to have one for men here to.

Comments

Hi, Thank you for posting, it

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 2020-03-04 - 10:02
Hi, Thank you for posting, it sounds like you’ve been through a lot. Treatment and how your body may react to certain medications varies for each individual. To learn more about Dilantin and things to look for, please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/medications/phenytoin The goal of treatment with medicines should be –NoSeizures and No Side Effects. However, we know that some individuals may experience too many side effects, that are very bothersome or cause other health problems. It’s important that you're continuing to follow-up with your healthcare team to express your concerns and if you continue to experience any potential changes in side effects, seizure types/frequency, symptoms, moods and behaviors to determine what individual treatment plan is best for you. Be open and honest with your doctor about your feeling and how this is impacting your health and daily life. If you have not already, you may want to consider seeking more specialize care for your epilepsy at an epilepsy center. A comprehensive epilepsy center is a group of health care professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, care, and treatment of people with seizures and epilepsy. Usually led by an epileptologist,(epilepsy specialist), who can help explore all treatment options and determine what individual treatment plan may be best for you.  To find an epileptologist or epilepsy center near you, please visit: https://www.ibe-epilepsy.org/about/ibe-chapters/western-pacific/ .Epilepsy centers can also help connect you with additional support groups and educational sessions. Men living with epilepsy may also experience health concerns that are unique to their gender. Learn about some of the epilepsy related health issues men should be aware of and respond to here:https://www.epilepsy.com/article/2018/6/june-men’s-health-month https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/special-populations/men-and-epilepsyManaging these issues with your epilepsy team can help improve seizure control and your quality of life. For additional information and resources regarding managing your epilepsy, please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/managing-your-epilepsy/managing-my-seizures-101. We also understand that living with epilepsy is more than seizures, it also means learning how to handle the way epilepsy affects your life including your physical well-being, social and emotional health. https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living/emotional-healthWe are glad to hear that you have support friends that have helped you through some challenging times. One of the most important things to help you live with epilepsy is to find a support network. For assistance finding support or helping getting connected to resources in your country, please visit: http://epilepsyfoundation.org.au/

Thanks for sharing Dean and

Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 2020-03-04 - 14:27
Thanks for sharing Dean and so sorry to hear of the problems. It's often hard to tell how much is related to a medicine, effect of seizures on the brain, depression or something else. When a person feels unsafe then it's time. to see your healthcare provider. Ideally talk to both neurologist and a mental health provider.  Hang in there and if any questions getting the help you need, contact our 24/7 helpline as they can connect with mental health supports too. 

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