new diagnosis after seizures starting 4 weeks ago, 37 weeks pregnant. Any advice?

[soniaackerman]

hi, so I started taking seizures out of the blue nearly four weeks ago now. Due to being pregnant I have been seen pretty quick by neurology who diagnosed epilepsy seizures and started me on keppra. I think they believe they are focal seizures with 2nd generalisation. They and maternity both do not think the seizures are pregnancy related in any way and this would have happened regardless of pregnancy. I’ve had about 10 seizures in three weeks so my dose was increased early from 250mg twice a day, to 500, to 750. But at now 37 weeks pregnant they said they may not be able to get me to a dose that will stop the seizures currently with the effect the medication could have on baby. I’m hopefully going in next week at 38 weeks to deliver early.

This has been so out of the blue, and especially with a newborn going to be here very soon, I’ve been an emotional mess at times with all the unknowns. Especially taking care of a newborn when having seizures, and generally what life day to day with epilepsy looks like. It’s all new to me.

any advice and support anyone can give me is very much welcomed.x

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You need to consult your neurologist and a gynecologist. Your epilepsy isn't connected with your pregnancy. Get a full picture of your epilepsy. GPs know very little.

[EpilepsyAction1 Partner Epilepsy Action]

Hi Sonia, there must be a lot to take in at the moment. We wish you well for the planned birth of your baby next week. And I hope you hear from others here as it can be really helpful to share experiences and knowledge.

We have some sections of our website that might be useful for you to have a look at.

We have some information for new parents/carers looking after a baby: epilepsy.org.uk/info/caring...

And we have a resource of information for people with a new diagnosis of epilepsy which might be helpful for you as well: epilepsy.org.uk/info/newly-...

I'm also linking you to information about the range of services and support we offer at Epilepsy Action: epilepsy.org.uk/info/suppor...

Regards

Mags

Epilepsy Action Helpline Team.

[Jamaicangirl]

So sorry for this! What did your MRI and EEG show? Have you had covid? Is there a family history of seizures?

Hormonal changes can certainly trigger seizures. Menstruation can be linked to seizures. Please ask your doctor for a second opinion. Also find someone to help you at home. You will not sleep much after the birth and sleep deprivation causes seizures.

Is there a relative or friend who can stay with you? Will the hospital provide a home baby nurse?