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pediatric seizure and meditation

Thu, 01/30/2020 - 18:21
Our 12 year old son had an atonic seizure about 6 weeks ago. This was his first and only (so far). It occurred while he was listening to Holosync meditation, which uses binaural beats. At the time, he was also exhausted from school activities and stressed about a solo violin recital the next day. His MRI was negative. His EEG showed some general epileptiform abnormalities after they sleep deprived him, had him hyperventilate, and strobed a light in his eyes. He saw a pediatric neurologist who recommends Keppra, which apparently has some baggage. We are reluctant to to start this medication. There does appear to be a correlation between binaural beat meditation and seizures in people with epilepsy and we don't think it gave him an abnormal EEG. He was probably at silently at risk and the meditation MAY have triggered him by synchronizing his brain waves. It was stupid to let him do this before he was 18. Our pediatric neurologist knew nothing about this association and just fired off a Rx. I am wondering if anybody here knows of a specialist in Epilepsy who has experience with the effects of meditation. Really, we a looking for someone to agree with us that he doesn't need the med...but if a person who is versed in this issue strongly recommends the med, we will do it. Thanks so much.

Comments

Hi, Thank you for posting. We

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2020-01-31 - 09:49
Hi, Thank you for posting. We understand your concerns and know that you all want to do what is best for your child. We cannot determine if binaural beat mediation trigger a seizure for him or not. It’s important that you all are continuing to follow-up with your son's doctor (that you’re comfortable with), explore this further and if he experiences any changes in seizure types/frequency, side effects, symptoms, moods or behaviors, to help guide you all into making a decision that is best for him and his individual treatment plan. It can be challenging to find a healthcare team that you’re comfortable with, but if you feel you can’t talk openly with his doctors or you aren’t working towards the same goals, it may be time to get a second opinion: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/diagnosis/you-and-your-healthcare-team/second-opinionsOr consider having your son see an epileptologist (epilepsyspecialist). For assistance finding a specialist near you, please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/find-epilepsy-specialist Our new to Epilepsy & Seizure tool kit is a great resource and starting point for learning about what epilepsy is, what resources are available, how to make the most of doctors' visits, and how to take control of seizures, seizure first aid & safety. Learn more here: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/toolbox/new-seizures-and-epilepsyYou all may also want to consider keeping a journal or diary. My Seizure Diary:https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/epilepsy-foundation-my-seizure-diaryis a great tool for identifying & tracking seizures, setting reminders, managing medications & side effects, recording medical history, moods, behaviors, triggers,and other therapies or personal experiences, that may affect seizures and wellness, which can be shared with his healthcare team.To learn more about Keppra and things to watch for, please visit: https://www.epilepsy.com/medications/levetiracetamIt’s common for those who are in caregiver role to feel overwhelmed. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and that you’re taking care of yourself and making your health and overall well being a priority. https://www.epilepsy.com/sites/core/files/atoms/files/Caregivers%20factsheet.pdfIt may helpful to find someone you trust to talk about your concerns and worries. Some confide in their partner and others to close friends and family, or your child’s doctor or other professionals they work with (such as nurses and social workers) are also good resources. It may also be helpful to connect with other parents who may have similar experiences, to ask questions, find & give support to each other,by visiting: https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/parents-and-caregivers/parents-helping-parents  Additionally, you may always contact our 24/7 Helpline, where trained information specialists are available to answer your questions, offer help, hope, support, guidance, and access to national and local resources. 1-800-332-1000, or contactus@efa.org. epilepsy.com/helpline    Or contact your local Epilepsy Foundation: https://www.epilepsy.com/affiliates , find support groups, events, and programs in your community. 

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