Community Forum Archive
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.
ITS HARD TO DEAL WITH WHICH MEANS WE ARE WARRIORS!!!!!
Wed, 10/23/2019 - 01:38Topic: Women With Epilepsy
I was diagnosed with epilepsy 10 years ago. At the time, I had no idea what epilepsy was or where it came from. As time went along, I began having more seizures and I began to learn more about epilepsy. The seizures took a big toll on my life and my children. I then became depressed. I got tired of waking up in the hospital confused. After I began taking meds, it helped but they didn't stop. I was told that they may never stop..... Along the way I learned, Epilepsy is a disorder and it can be controlled by the right meds. I now know epilepsy is not a war it is just a battle. I take 3000 mg levitracetam daily. I am a full-time Medical Assistant and a full-time mother of 3. Epilepsy changed my life not all for bad but taught me how to live carefree.
Hi, Thank you for sharing
Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 2019-10-23 - 09:21
Hi, Thank you for sharing your story, it sounds like you and your family have been through a lot. We are happy to hear it sounds like you're on a treatment plan that works well for you. It’s important to remember that you are not alone. However, we know that being diagnosed with epilepsy can be upsetting and make you feel isolated. One of the most important things to help you live with epilepsy is to find a support network. Learn more about your community support, here: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy/social-concernsIt is common for those living with epilepsy to experience feelings of depression,so it’s important that you continue to address those challenges with your healthcare team, as well as any changes in changes in seizure types, frequency, moods,behaviors, sides effects & symptoms. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/challenges-epilepsy It's also important to recognize that epilepsy is more than just seizures, your overall well-being and emotional health are just as important: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living/emotional-health Whether you're new to epilepsy or not, the more information you have the stronger you will be. As a woman living with epilepsy, there is even more to consider,ranging from the impact of hormones on seizures, seizure medications, pregnancy, parenting and more. Browse our section on women and epilepsy, for questions and concerns to review with your healthcare team. https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/women My Seizure Diary: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/epilepsy-foundation-my-seizure-diaryis a great tool for not only tracking seizures, setting reminders, recording your medical history, managing medications, side effects, moods, behaviors & triggers,which can be shared with your healthcare team. You can track changes over time, keep records of your medications, and create a Seizure Response Plan or Action Plan: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/toolbox/seizure-forms to share with your family, friends and healthcare team, which is a helpful tool for those who are close to you to understand what do if you have seizure. Additionally, you may want to review our seizure alert device factsheet with your doctor, to see if a seizure alert device is an option for you: https://www.epilepsy.com/sites/core/files/atoms/files/DAS100_Seizure_Alert_Devices_09-2018_FINAL2.pdfAdditionally you may contact our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-332-1000 contactus@efa.org, where a trained information specialist can connect you to resources, provide referrals and additional support.epilepsy.com/helpline