Anti-Seizure Medication

This morning we started Emma on a low-dose liquid version of Keppra, a common anti-seizure medicine. I didn't realize how guilty I would feel about medicating her.

We met with Emma's Neurologist, who we have been going back and forth with about medicating Emma for her suspected seizures, but because we haven't managed to catch actual seizures on her EEGs Adam and I have been reluctant for many months. The Neurologist said, this week, that she is surprised that Emma is still experiencing these seizure-like symptoms, and is concerned still that Emma may be having seizures in a deeper part of the brain, where the EEG is unable to read them. She said that because the behavior hasn't changed, she is more inclined to think that they are seizures. As such, she recommended trialing anti-seizure medication for one month. After 5 days the medicine will be at a constant level in her system, and we can watch her symptoms. If the symptoms stop, it means that Emma will be given a "clinical diagnosis" of seizures. If the symptoms don't stop, we are no further ahead.

The medicine is a bit scary because it can have side effects. It could make our lovely placid little girl anxious, grumpy, and tired. It could clear up Emma's brainwaves and give her the opportunity to think and process more easily. She may have no side effects. If Emma experiences the grumps, we will be taking her off the medicine immediately, which is something her neurologist is totally on board with. 

In case you're interested in how it all works, here is a really nice little video to explain how it all works, and why we are nervous!

Click here for the video!

So think of Emma and send her good healing vibes! We'd appreciate it! 

Katy and Adam x