I’ve had epilepsy for over 40 years and have had changed neurologist 4 or 5 times. Originally it was due to the doctor not knowing how she should treat it. Another time was to get a better doctor, then there was a time when we wanted a doctor closer to us, changing another time because doctor had a problem with filling my Rx. Then I asked my PCP who he would recommend, and that’s whom I am currently seeing. He has been the best one that I’ve had that actually is working with me to open up other possibilities for treatment

I was doing good for a while when I saw neurologists at St. Louis Children's Hospital but when I turned 18, I had to move to another part and those people were lousy. I decided to see a neurologist closer to home and he was like a robot. Everytime I saw him it was a repeat of the last appointment. Then a co-worker gave me the name of an epileptologist and that man was just what I was looking for. I don't see him anymore because my seizures are controlled but I know he had a big part in it.

Kris5
It's very confusing when you just start exhibiting seizure activity. Sometimes it takes years to make a determination as to what type of seizures you are exhibiting. In the meantime, your doctor will probably have to try several different types of meds on you 'til he/she finds the right mix. Remember, the #1 thing is to get your seizures under control. In order to do that, you and your doc must work together. Think of him as the computer and you it's data. The more detailed info that you can give him about their frequency and what happens during them, the better. After which, you can worry about what type they are. I know that you don't want to hear it, but you have to be patient. Four months is not a very long time span. It usually takes at least six months to determine if a med is working. It's the side effects that you notice first, and that is what you want to be sure to tell him about.

I've been blessed with you kind and caring neurologist. I haven't had to make any changes.

During my early journey in epilepsy, my GP took care of me. My neurologist was not nice and we were family friends with my GP. My first neurologist was wonderful and had a great sense of humor. My next neurologist was a rude word. I had heard two new medications were coming out and would one of them be a good fit for me. Her receptionist called me back saying the neurologist had not heard of any new medications and I should talk to my pharmacist?!? Then my next two neurologists I had for over 30 years and they were fantastic. Then I had a real problem with the PA I was assigned to. He was a jerk and things went downhill fast, but I own part of the problems. I am now at UNC with an MD who is an epiologist (spelling) and he is great and agrees with how I want to be treated.