Neurologist Update

Had an appointment with the neurologist this morning. It went well, I got answers to alot of my questions, and some clarification on some issues.

We're trying a new medication. Topamax. With the Keppra and the Lamictal not working, he said either Topamax or Depakote, and with the Depakote, she would have to be monitored through lab work once a month, and Topamax tends to have fewer side effects than some of the "harsher" drugs. The main side effect that does come with the Topamax, which we're concerned with, is weightloss. One of the better side effects from the Keppra was that Emma gained weight for the first time in a long time. So we'll have to go in for weight checks from time to time to make sure that she's not loosing weight. If she does loose to much weight, then once again, the side effects will not outweigh the possible good, so we would have to change medications again. It will take about a week before we get at a full dose for the Topamax, and he said once we're at the full dose, we should know rather quickly if the Topamax will help for her seizures or not. Once we're at the full dose, and if it does work, then we will start weaning her off of the Keppra.

As for the MRI, there is only one Hospital in the area who does sedated MRI's. He said that because of the type of Epilepsy that she has, the MRI is to check for developmental issues, that are not really related to the Epilepsy. Because her Epilepsy is Generalized, which means that her brain is firing off when it shouldn't be, but it is firing off all over her brain, not in just one spot. If it were firing off in just one spot they would of gotten her in for an MRI sooner. The reason they're checking it for developmental issues is because Emma has always been behind on her large motor skills. She didn't walk until she was 17 months, and still to this day doesn't "play" like a normal 3 year old. She doesn't run, or jump, or climb like usual. So we're still waiting for the MRI.

I feel so much better having more explanations and being able to sit down and actually talk to the Dr. about the medications, what the side effects can be, and when we can expect to see some improvement. I'll feel even better when we get the MRI, but I'll just have to practice my patience with that one.

In family news, Josh will be leaving for just a little while next week. It does stink, but it's for a short period of time, and it's to help get guys that have been over there for over a year home sooner. Still seems a little to real when Josh came home with his Will in hand and Advance Directive, and Medical Power of Attorney. It will go by fast, Josh's mom is coming to visit for a week, and then a few days after she leaves, my best friend is coming to visit for a week, so it will go fast!