Loss of Bowel Control during Seizure?? - Epilepsy Message Board

Rebecca's Mom · 04-12-2005, 04:20 PM

Hi - my daughter Rebecca is 19 years old with Lennox Gastaut. She is developmentally delayed and functions at around age 4. Rebecca has complex partials, tonic clonic, drop seizures and absance seizures. She seizures daily and until recently she never had loss of bowel control. She does often void when she seizures. In the last few months she is having bowel accidents but they are not seen with her seizures so we are not sure why they are happening. We did have her stool tested to see if something else was going on but tests were negative. Any input for anyone is truly appreciated.........Rebecca's Mom

Phoebe · 04-13-2005, 05:51 PM

I do know that one can have a loss of bowel or bladder control during a seizure. I don't have an answer as to why it would start now except for maybe there is now more abdominal muscle involvement in her seizures or maybe it was when it was near time for a bowel movement. I do know that some have Gi symptoms with their Complex Partials so that could possibly be a factor. I am just guessing really. I had loss of badder control all through my history with epilepsy but never did have loss of bowel control. I would suggest that her doc be told of this since it seems to be a change. Is the VNS an option for her? I do wish you well Phoebe

Rebecca's Mom · 04-15-2005, 06:35 AM

Hi Phoebe and thanks for your input. Rebecca had the VNS 8 years ago (did not work). I do find your thoughts on abdominal muscle change in Rebecca probably are happening for her. We do find her body has changed as she gets older. She has become so very frail. I'm hoping this will settle down as it makes it difficult to manage should she be on an outing.......kind regards....Rebecca's Mom