How Can Sudden Seizures Be Treated While On Keppra?

Posted on Fri, 14 Apr 2023

Question: I recently experienced my 1st seizures. 4 in one day, followed by 3 days in the CCU @ our hospital. My MRI/scans showed nothing, but I'm now on Keppra and can't drive for one yr. My life has changed drastically. I've had chiari malformation decompression surgery(2000) and VP shunt surgeries('00 & '01) in the past, also. I don't understand these seizures. I fell down, shook violently, spit and chewed my tongue so badly that it's taken 4 wks to heal. How do I know what my future holds or if I'll be able to drive again? We live in a VERY small town. I got a new bicycle/tricycle with a big basket on back, but can't drive it everywhere. Any advice?
Thanks so much, xxxxx

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:

Seizures in awkward situations can be life threatening

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I am sorry to hear about your condition. You have already undergone surgery and therefore the underlying pathology is already a documented one.

You have been detected to be vulnerable to seizures. Now, these seizures can occur anytime (if they occur at all) and you therefore need to avoid any situation wherein you might be in a sudden awkward situation.

I mean to say that even unsupervised crossing the road can lead to life threatening consequences if you get a seizure while you are crossing the road. The same is also applicable for handling fire and also goes for driving.

Imagine losing control (due to seizure) while driving. Caution is therefore essential. It would therefore be justifiable for somebody to drive you.

I understand that it may be difficult but the safety needs to be ensured.

Other than that you need to make sure to take the medicines on daily basis.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Prof. Kunal Saha, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad