My epilepsy effects me in a variety of ways depending on where my seizures originate in my brain and the cause of the seizures. I have to deal with memory problems, balance issues and other cognitive difficulties (such as: attention, reasoning, the ability to come up with the correct word to use in a conversation, etc.). I have problems that are the result of both repeated seizures and also, my brain surgery. I am currently working with my “Neurologist” at the “Stanford Hospital” to reevaluate my current over medical condition, my medications and treatments, to determine the best form of treatment moving forward to deal with my current condition. This involves a series of various tests over several weeks to evaluate my current physical condition and develop a strategy for the future. We completed several tests already in past weeks. My hospitalizations to date, have been a real test, for both “Alepo” and me. I am very, very grateful to say that “Alepo” has been great and made this difficult process easier and more acceptable for me. Thanks, “Alepo” (and thanks, “CPL”). I know that on our hospital visits, so far, “Alepo” has impressed many, many people (my doctors, nurses, staff, handicapped individuals, visitors, etc.) along the way and helped me during each of these visits (he constantly impresses me, too). Yesterday, Monday I went for neuropsychological testing, which was to measure my brain functions, my cognitive abilities to determine how recurrent seizures (and my surgery) are affecting me, now. This information will be helpful in determining potential treatment options for my epilepsy, it is also important in determining how my surgery has effected me over time. The evaluation took about 6 hours (way too long) to complete. Measuring My Brain and Mind Neuropsychological testing evaluates problems in brain functioning. Unlike the CT or MRI scans, which show what the structure of the brain looks like, neuropsychological testing examines how well my brain is working when it performs certain functions (for example: learning or remembering). Testing can help my Doctor (Neuropsychologist) make a diagnosis and plan treatment. These types of tests are not invasive (these tests don’t penetrate my body) and do not involve x-rays or electronic machines. These tests assess the following areas: my memory, attention, reasoning and problem solving, visual-space functions, language functions, planning-organization and executive functions, academic skills and personality, and emotional functioning. My neuropsychologist is a licensed psychologist specializing in the area of brain-behavior relationships. She uses her expertise to understand how brain problems affect my behavior and thinking. She is the best qualified to answer questions about the intersection of my brain and mind, biology and identity. She advised that we will get the results for this testing in a few weeks and will meet for a follow-up visit to review the results and recommendations. So far, I have realized a very positive result from the “pain management” testing completed, month ago. That is, I have realized a significant reduction in the “severe pain” I was experiencing almost “daily”. A change in medications occurred, the result of my “pain management” evaluation and testing. This proves to me that it is possible to improve my overall condition and I hope this improvement continues as we go along. Of course, having a wonderful “sister” coordinating this effort for me makes a big difference. My “residential medical coordinator”, my sister drove me to “Stanford Hospital”, 200 miles away, over three (3) hours of driving each way, and met my Doctors with me. It was a long ten (10) hour day, she made possible for me. I am very grateful and I love her very much. Thanks
Posted on: Tue, 19 Aug 2014 20:51:04 +0000
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