Treatment with epilepsy
Hello,
I wondered if anyone could advise. Yesterday, I found out I have RA as suspected. Desperately need a DMARD as I’m so much pain and discomfort. I have epilepsy and wondered what they are likely to give me for it? Worrying that they’ll deny me them.
Many thanks,
Katie
First off, let me say that I know the time when you are first diagnosed can be frightening and overwhelming, and just know you are not alone and we are here to do whatever we can! Saying that, I have to be honest, RA is such a unique and individual disease, even if we could provide medical advice to you (which we really can't 🙁 ) it more than likely wouldn't be of value. Everyone's illness has different trigger and different stipulations that need to be observed and what works for one is in no way guaranteed to work for another. If you see a rheumatologist I wouldn't be worried about them denying you anything but more concerned that insurance might balk - but your rheumatologist should know how to get around any insurance pitfalls. Please let us know what the rheumatologist says and don't worry - so many of us have secondary conditions just like epilepsy that it's probably less common to have just RA alone! Keep on keepin' on, DPM Thank you so much for your response! It’s such a lonely illness isn’t it. Shuffling around trying to look ‘normal’ and continue with work etc when you feel horrendous.
Luckily, I’m in the UK so insurance isn’t an issue. However, our NHS is in such a state that appointments take forever. Today I’ve requested a course of steroids from the GP which they denied saying I’m under a specialist therefore have to deal with them. The appointment isn’t until March 🙄.
I will keep you updated and very much appreciate your input.
Take care and have a lovely Christmas 🎄
Katie
, ugh!! I wish you were able to get that prescription filled -- it would probably help with the pain for the short term. I have heard of those long waits with the NHS, but frankly, getting in to see a specialist in the US can take just as long 🙁 . Both healthcare systems could use some overhauls, but I personally think your country is at least on the right track! Since I don't know the inner workings of the NHS, I can't probably offer much constructive advice.
I hope you can get those meds sooner and you, too, have a wonderful Christmas season!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.
, that's a really good question. Oddly enough, scientists have been doing research into potential links between RA and epilepsy. So, a good rheumatologist should be able to do a little research to find the best potential treatment for you. I can't image you would outright be denied treatment (although I know things like that happen sometimes). You have the right to proper treatment, just like anyone else. Epilepsy may add a level of complexity to your treatment process, but that shouldn't disqualify you from care. I suspect (although, keep in mind I am not an expert) one big concern would be avoiding medicine contraindications between any meds you take for epilepsy and any meds you might take for RA. Do you currently have any medication restrictions?
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.Hi Erin,
Thanks so much for the support and info! I’m not actually on any meds for the epilepsy. I only had 1 seizure but the 2 EEGs showed abnormal activity indicating epilepsy. It was a first seizure over a year ago and thankfully no more.
Ironically, I’m a mental health nurse. At work at the moment in so much intense pelvic pain. The scan evidenced no issues with the pelvis though positive ANA and CCP blood results. I feel as though as I’m going mad. I’m sure everyone thinks that this is all in my head.
Would you mind telling me a bit about your journey with this illness please? It’s comforting linking with people who have been through this isn’t it. Misery liking company 🤣.
Thanks again Erin!
Katie, I am actually one of the very few people in this community that has not been diagnosed with RA. As a moderator without this condition, I know I am limited in how much I can relate to people living with the condition. I can have all the empathy in the world, but I will never know what it's like to live with RA.
I am providing a link to our team info. You can read about our team moderators, contributors, and experts and find links to their work. There is a large community of individuals that can understand what you are going through right now -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/community/experts.
That said, can I say how grateful I am for your work in the mental health care sector? I think the pandemic has shown the value of community and proper access to quality mental health care for every individual. Thanks for all you do to help others!
And while I can't fully relate, please know you are always welcome to vent about your symptoms here anytime. But, I won't be offended if you prefer to share with someone that understands life with RA more than I do.
May you have a restful, Merry Christmas and a nice start to 2023 (and a much quicker appointment date for your intake appointment)!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.
