approaching your GP / Temporal Lobe Epilepsy - Epilepsy Message Board

squeaka · 08-26-2003, 02:19 PM

My girlfriend is suffering from some symptoms relating to Temporal Lobe Epilepsy esp. constant flashes of deja-vu and poor memory among others. She is reluctant to approach her GP about it because she already has difficulty in even going to the doctor's, and doesn't wish to be labelled as a hypocondriac for attempting to self-diagnose.
Is there anyone out there who has been diagnosed with TLE who could suggest the best way to approach a GP without invoking a dismissive wave of incredulity?

Grumps · 08-26-2003, 02:25 PM

Hard one - my first sizure was a 'Grand Mal' so fireworks frothing at the mouth wetting myself the lot so no doubts as to what it was.

Does not say on your post where you are from - I am from the UK and I have to say my GP is very sympathetic and understanding and has never questioned me, neither has my Nuro even when I 'pushed' him gently to get me off Epilim and onto Keppra.

My suggestion is for her to write down all her symtoms and make an appointment - you go in with her as partners often remember more about szrs than the Epileptic - don't suggest suggest any illness or condition just wait and see what he/she comes back with if they are a decent GP from your description of symtoms I would expect at least an EEG or Brain Scan

As it does sound like possible Peti Mal szrs

Good luck and Let us know how you get on..........

amydianne1 · 08-26-2003, 03:36 PM

Hello,

Tell her that I went to my GP with a list of my symptoms to get a referral to a neurologist. At the time, I didn't know what was going on. I was having the deja vu's, with the memory loss and then the complex partial seizures. I would tell her to list what is going on if it would make her feel better and take it to her doctor for a referral.

Good luck to you

Amy