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Peri-menopause and seizures

by Jeanette
(Concrete, WA)

About 2 years ago I started having very strange "disconnect" on my right side. It was really scary. I had an MRI and there was nothing abnormal about it. I started going to a specialist and he put me on anti-seizure and anxiety medication.

I was keeping track of the "disconnect" and started noticing a pattern - it was happening approximately 2 days before my period. I went to my gynecologist and I told her what was going on and she said that when you begin peri-menopause you can actually have seizures. I did blood work to check my progesterone levels but they came back fine, but again two days before my period I had a "disconnect". I am going to give my gynecologist a call, she said that if this continues she would put me on progesterone.

I am hoping this will help. It has been two long years of wondering what in the world is wrong with me. My gynecologist actually got me in contact with a lady in my area that has had contact with a doctor in Boston that has been doing a study about seizures and peri-menopause. It was a relief to find out that I am not crazy. Hope this helps someone else out there! Also, I am only 41 years old and have been told by several people that I am too young to be in the beginning stages of menopause - apparently not.

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Jul 19, 2008
 Peri-menopause and seizures
by: Wray

Hi Jeanette A drop in progesterone levels just before a period can cause seizures, and not necessarily only when starting peri-menopause. More often than not the seizures occur during the pre-menopause years. Although you say your progesterone levels were normal, they could have been 'low normal' and your oestrogen levels 'high normal', in which case this would have caused your problems.

Incidentally the average age for menopause is 51, but symptoms can start 5-10 years before. Do hope this helps. Take care Wray.

The following extract is taken from "Once a Month", one of Dr K Dalton's books available on Amazon:

"In August 1948 I came across my first case of premenstrual asthma, I had found a further case of asthma, two of epilepsy, and two of migraines that all occurred just before menstruation. They also responded successfully to progesterone. Together with Dr. Raymond Greene (brother of author Graham Greene) I continued to find more cases of PMS, and in 1953 we published in the British Medical Journal the first paper in medical literature describing the many bodily premenstrual presentations, as well as tension, and gave it the name "premenstrual syndrome. The duration of PMS varies enormously. It may last a full fourteen days, with deep depression at ovulation lasting until a sudden ending when menstrual bleeding starts, while those prone to epileptic seizures caused by PMS may find that the devastating attack is measured in minutes or hours, not days. But both are deserving of treatment. Symptoms of migraine, psychosis, hallucinations, and alcoholic bouts tend to last only a day or two and come immediately before menstruation. Symptoms are always at their worst immediately before menstruation. One of the most satisfying experiences for a doctor is to be able to diagnose and treat a woman with premenstrual epilepsy. She can be treated with progesterone and taken off all anticonvulsant tablets, with their many unpleasant side effects. Premenstrual epilepsy is often a culminating symptom, which follows gradually increasing tension and headache, so these patients do have a warning that an attack is imminent. There may also be marked weight gain, though this is not always the case. Often the final trigger factor that precipitates the attack is a long interval without food."
Oct 13, 2009
 wow
by: Anonymous

I am almost 44 and had my first seizure this weekend! It scared my husband and family. I woke up to ambulance attendants over me on a stretcher in my hallway. They took me to the hospital emergency and I had a CT and blood work done. All clear. I am booked for a EEG next week. I hope it is from perimenopause and not something more serious ie epilepsy development. I have been very stressed out as I am a nursing student with 3 small children. Your story helped me feel better. I am very tired and feel "disconnected" since the event.
Oct 12, 2010
 I hope I found my problem also
by: mrs fleming

I'm a 39 year old women and had a tubligation done back in 2004 after my son was born. Then on Nov 4 2004 I had my first seizure just before my period started and been having them ever since. I can't find a doctor that would tell me why I'm having them but as I reseach stuff for myself I'm beginning to think this could be what is the cause of my seizure. Could someone tell me if I'm on the right track or am I crazy? Please help.
Oct 17, 2010
 wow
by: Wray

Hi there It sounds very much like a peri-menopausal problem, as you've not had them before. For more info please see our page on Peri-menopause. The stress points to it too, as progesterone levels drop sharply if stressed. At what point in your cycle did you have the seizure? As that can have a bearing on it too, although I've found if stressed they can occur at any time. From about the age of 35 our progesterone levels start dropping, as we have more and more anovulatory cycles, when no progesterone is made. Progesterone is excellent for seizures if they are hormonal in nature, please see here, here,and here. If you should consider it please this page on How to use progesterone cream. But before you do, please read this page on Oestrogen Dominance first. I recommend between 100-200mg/day, the more severe the symptoms, the more is needed. As you are stressed you might need the higher amount to begin with. It's essential to make progesterone the dominant hormone. Take care Wray
Oct 17, 2010
 I hope I found my problem also
by: Wray

Hi Mrs Fleming No you are not crazy, and it was undoubtedly the tubal ligation which has caused the problem. Although it's made out to be a benign op, it does throw our hormones into turmoil. For more info please see Tubal ligation If after reading this website you want to get it reversed, please see the Lakeshore Tubal Reversal Center website. Progesterone is excellent for seizures if hormonal in nature, please see here, here, and here If you should consider it please this page on How to use progesterone cream. But it's essential to read this page on Oestrogen Dominance first. I recommend between 100-200mg/day, the more severe the symptoms, the more is needed. Take care Wray
Jan 27, 2011
 Seizures by my period
by: Anonymous

I have been having these events for about 1 1/2 years and to date, the only thing I have been told by the Neurologist is that they are anxiety, stress or previous trauma related. My symptoms are I get nausea, sometimes profuse vomitting, diaherra, my speech starts slurring, all my senses get off, I get a little out of it but remain concious, my teeth start to clench or chatter, my heart beats strangely, I cannot walk normal, my breathing is off, then I start to jerk and shake (mainly in my arms and head but it has happened in my legs before too). I can tell that all the muscles in my body are tightly drawn. These episodes are very, very painful. They last from 20 minutes to 3 hours. I am exhausted when they are over, feel like I have been beat up and I take several days to recover from them. I started tracking them and noticed that they ALWAYS happen either 1-2 days before, during or 1-3 days after my period. I have been dealing with a bunch of idiot doctors who will not even try hormonal therapy on me. They say that it is in my head so using hormones would be useless. I have been told that hormones cannot cause seizures - dispite what I have read on the internet. I am so frustrated and feel that I have been suffering needlessly.
Jan 28, 2011
 I thought I was alone..
by: Anonymous

Hi everybody, I have had seizures since the age of nine but it has always been controlled with medication. I have had a wonderful life seizure free for a very long long time now. This is very hard on me as I was an active person.

Now that I am peri menopausal I am finding that they are no longer under control and I am finding it very hard to explain my symptoms to the doc's cuz they happen so fast, I feel they don't believe me at times. I went from being seizure free to at least 3 to 4 a month. All my mri and ct scan have been normal, I have changed meds with no success.. I am at my wits end.

Any Suggestions??

cat..
Feb 03, 2011
 Seizures by my period
by: Wray

Hi there I'm amazed the neurologist says they are anxiety related, particularly as you have a pattern of the episode occurring round your period. This is known as catamenial epilepsy, and is caused by excess oestrogen in ratio to progesterone, see here, here,and here. The following is taken from "Once a Month", a book by Dr K Dalton, available on Amazon...."In August 1948 I came across my first case of premenstrual asthma, I had found a further case of asthma, two of epilepsy, and two of migraines that all occurred just before menstruation. They also responded successfully to progesterone..... One of the most satisfying experiences for a doctor is to be able to diagnose and treat a woman with premenstrual epilepsy. She can be treated with progesterone and taken off all anticonvulsant tablets, with their many unpleasant side effects." That's 63 years ago she was using progesterone for epilepsy! You can understand my amazement at the neurologist. So it's not in your head, it is hormonal. If you should consider using progesterone, please make sure it's sufficient. I recommend 100-200mg/day, please see the page on How to use progesterone for more info. Dr Dalton would initially give a 50mg injection, then "progesterone suppositories, which could be inserted rectally or vaginally and used instead of frequent intramuscular injections.... It was soon established that suppositories needed to be given at least twice daily for any beneficial effect, and that at least two hours were needed between insertions. The maximum effect of each suppository appeared to be 400 mg and lasted for an average of eight to eighteen hours, so the minimum dose of suppositories was 400 mg twice daily." Please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance before you try it. Take care Wray
Feb 03, 2011
 I thought I was alone..
by: Wray

Hi Cat Was there a pattern in your seizures, ie did they occur around your period? If so they could be hormonal. Peri-menopause is a difficult time, our cycle becomes very erratic. So it could well be your seizures are hormonal in nature as they are now occurring again. Oestrogen is high in peri-menopause, whereas progesterone is low. In case they were related to your cycle, please see these papers here, here, and here, Another thing to consider is vitamin D, a lack of this causes seizures, plus seizure medication destroys vitamin D, has anyone checked your level over all those years? It could be it's low after years of meds. See here, here, here, here, here and here. If you think it could be related to low progesterone, and you consider trying it, please read this page on Oestrogen Dominance first. If you think it's vitamin D related please see the Vitamin D council website for more info. Take care Wray
Feb 04, 2011
 Dr name ?
by: Cat

Hi Everybody, this is very interesting as I have felt the exact same way. Would you happen to have the name of the doctor in Boston who has done some study on peri menopause and seizures. At this point I am so desperate I will try anything. I want to live an very normal life and not worry about having seizures.
Feb 20, 2011
 Dr name ?
by: Wray

Hi Cat I can't help you, but if you do find out, please let us know. Take care Wray
Feb 24, 2011
 I am not alone and its great
by: teresa

i just got thru with an eeg and veg ,,, yes i have seizures and no its not epilespy but they say its stress or trauma ,,, i have had a normal life and childhood. Than they started shoving papers at me wanting me to see a therapist, and a behaviorhal one at that,wrong move. I am not crazy and I have a computer. A wonderful tool they didnt have in my mothers day.

For over three years I have been dealing with these "events" too. they have not called them seizures. I have lost my license, two jobs and feels like my sanity some days. Then when the doctors said I am having seizures, they were because of stress or trauma. I did go nuts and I did not care. I have been confused, like most of you, massive headaches, can not speak (I have it in my head but can't get it out), in a constant fog, my memory is shot, i go from one room to another and just stand forget why i am there, can't finish a task, light headed, dizzy, and all of this is on a good day. During a seizure without my meds (I take topamax and vimpat) i shake, stare, don't speak, go limp, and incoherent for several minutes.

The thing i have noticed however that is different is i have never had a normal cycle, and when it is time for mine cycle it does get worse.

I am so glad i have found that i am not alone, and i may have what is causing my seizures. Now i have something to take back to my neuroligist, when i see him and have a piece of mind that i am not alone.

Is there any way to contact each other so we can keep in touch ?? and see how we are doing.
Mar 10, 2011
 Hugs kisses and thanks!
by: Anonymous

Thank you so much for posting this. I started having seizures at 43. Suddenly - at night (early a.m.) always right before my period. After 2 I realized this and mentioned to the docs. We were also dealing with my asthma which had suddenly come back from childhood. They did not recognize either of these as a reason for the seizures, nor was there any physical prob. with eeg and scans with dye. I suspected an oxygen problem/stroke. My O2 levels were low, but no evidence of any damage or probs.

Suddenly a few months ago (at 46) I get the feeling I'll have no more seizures - I'm not sure why. My asthma went away again. The morning fuzzouts or partial seizures seem to have stopped. Maybe that's why.The scared anticipation of the next seizure just went away. Last month the hot flashes started. I'm printing your article for the doc.
Mar 22, 2011
 I am not alone and its great
by: Wray

Hi Teresa I wouldn't say you were crazy, apart from seizures and headaches, I had all those symptoms you mention. All gone now, thanks to progesterone. I do hope you come right too. The irregular cycle points to a lack of progesterone too. And if you are not in peri-menopause, progesterone can help regulate the cycle. Please have a vitamin D test done too, seizure meds reduce the level, and a lack of vitamin D can cause seizures. For more info on this see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. Take care Wray
Mar 22, 2011
 Hugs kisses and thanks!
by: Wray

Hi there I do hope the doc takes notice! Please read those links I gave above on the effect low progesterone and vitamin D has on seizures. Both these also help asthma too, see here, and here and here. Please consider having a vitamin D test done, see the Vitamin D council and GrassrootsHealth websites. The reason your asthma went away again a few months ago, was summer. We make vitamin D during the summer months, not in winter. Take care Wray
Mar 25, 2011
 Tubal Reversal
by: Tubal Reversal

Hello,
Thank you for sharing this information enjoyable.Last week, I find a site of a Doctor which is really specialist in women issues ..He is very Responsible doctor to satisfy women in there problem.
The site also discuss the daily normal issues of women.Do not forget to tell the good things with your friends.
I think you'll have some surprise.see mybabydoc.com
Mar 25, 2011
 Evening Primrose oil
by: Cat

Hi everybody, just wondering if anybody has heard of Evening Primrose Oil. Its a nature remady to help with hot flashes and menopause. I have done some reading on it and have read that it can cause
seizures.. Has anybody tried it?
Aug 24, 2011
 Seizures started at 45 year old
by: Anonymous

Hi. I just happen to come across this. I am now 60. At 45 I started having seizures. I knew something was wrong with me, but didn't know what. The Dr. said I was hypoglcemic and thought I was pre diabetic. I had 2 grand mal seizures. One 1 day prior to my period and the other 4 months later 2 days before my period. I had been feeling odd at times prior to that, but could not put my finger on a cause. I really went through a very difficult time for years. Today at 60 I'm still on medication. I had my period til I was 58 years old. I take phenytoin. Once in awhile I still have odd sensations. They tried to wean me from the phenytoin but could not. Just wanted to share.
Oct 26, 2011
 finally!
by: Heidi

Been looking to see if this is happening to anyone else for 2 or 3 years now...before all I found was the reverse, where an epileptic was suddenly NOT due to menopause. Sometimes I do black out but more often I just have the aura; a strange taste in my mouth and the not being able to speak thing (I like how she put it, "it's in my head but I can't get it out"). I started with a neurologist and she just wanted to diagnose me epileptic; made me VERY angry to have a doctor disregard what I was saying. Then I tried 2 different endocrinologists...one of them (without knowing why) just blindly gave me the progesterone cream I wanted only because I told him to, and the other just sat there and kept saying "huh...interesting...I've never heard of that before", etc. I go to a woman's center now and the doctor there is very interested in getting to the bottom of it all, thank goodness. I'm on progesterone therapy right now but it's not 100% effective as I still have the partial seizures about once a month, give or take. It's very depressing but I hope to see it taper off and finally cease (as it did from 2004-2009) forever. I'll be celebrating my 50th birthday next week...just throwing that in there.
Instinctively, I KNEW I wasn't alone but it sure is good to have proof!!!
Nov 28, 2011
 Seizures started at 45 year old
by: Wraa

Hi there Thanks for sharing this. Please have a vitamin D test done, as you can see from the papers I've given above, it's often a cause of seizures. And please consider progesterone too. Take care Wray
Nov 28, 2011
 finally!
by: Wray

Hi Heidi I'm so pleased you finally realised others have the same problems, with their doctors too! I do hope you're using enough progesterone, and that it's not oral progesterone. This is the least effective Delivery system. And please have a vitamin D test done too, it's such a vital nutrient, low in most of us. Take care Wray
Dec 30, 2011
 Seizures at 42
by: Kim

For the past month I have been going to the ER and doctors because of seizures and seizure like activity that have interfered with my job and everyday life. I have been keeping track of events and surrounding conditions on a calendar for my neurologist. I noticed my periods are getting closer together and my worst incident have been right before. I pointed it out to my general practitioner and had my hormone levels tested... Normal!! I am still waiting to get into my gyn since I haven't been in a while, I am considered a new patient.
I am wheat intolerant so I will have to get my vitamin D levels checked. Thanks for the idea.
I was relieved to hear other people have similar experiences. No one has reassured me of that, everyone listens to me and asks if I am stressed. Of course I am now! Still looking for answers!
Jan 02, 2012
 thank you..
by: Anonymous

Hi Jennette, as you probably read I am having the same problems. Can you supply me with the name of the doc in boston.. Cathy
Jan 04, 2012
 Seizures at 42
by: Wray

Hi Kim I love your remark about everyone asking if you're stressed. It's hardly surprising! Unfortunately when hormones are checked the ratio very rarely is, this is the critical factor, not the amount. We've found from Saliva Tests a naturopath runs for us, that the ratio of P:E2 should be 600:1 and over to feel well. If you have your results please check this. And please have that vitamin D test done soon, most of us have far too low a level. You might consider using progesterone too, it begins dropping from about age 35, as anovulatory cycles begin. It sounds as if you're in the early stages of Peri-menopause. This page gives info on how to use progesterone. Take care Wray
Jan 25, 2012
 sounds like me!
by: carla

hi, so many of these stories sound like mine. I had a seizure almost two years ago. I woke up in the hospital and had no idea what was going on, i am about to turn 49. After being taken off dilantin two months later i had the same thing happen. I was sent home and had another one an hour after i was sent home, both incidents were two days before my period, which i pointed out to my drs. They dismissed the possibility of the two being connected. Now my cycle is pretty irregular and i have been feeling terrible again, i am sure the seizures are related to menopause. Reading this helps me feel better already, going to follow thru with my female dr. I have had terrible experiences with drs. Its been a nightmare!
Jan 26, 2012
 sounds like me!
by: Wray

Hi Carla Please read the papers I gave to Cat on Feb 3rd, and if you have problems with your doctors again, please print them out as evidence that a drop in progesterone can cause seizures. The vitamin D too, as that has a bearing on them. In fact please have a test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, testing etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth, Birmingham Hospital and Vitamin D Links websites. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml or 175-250nmol/L and not the 30ng/ml or 75nmol/L most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although the latest research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Jan 26, 2012
 sounds like me
by: carla

I just had a bunch of tests ran by my neurologist on the 20th, after my internal medicine dr. threw me out of her ofc for insisting i get a lyme disease test, my vitamin d was at 34, thanks so much for your quick response and all the information. The stress of no answers is as bad as the condition! I will bring the papers with me to my appt with my new np that i switched to after my last nightmare experience. This site is a godsend to me!
Jan 26, 2012
 sounds like me
by: Wray

Hi Carla I'm glad it's been of help! And please get your vitamin D level up to a minimum of 50ng/ml, better if it's in the 70-100ng/ml range. Knowing how long it took me taking 5000iu's per day, I suggest you take 10,000iu's for a month, before dropping to the 5000iu's. Then have a test done after 3 months to see how high it's got. It's best to have them regularly every 6 months, as stress in particular drops levels, and it seems you've had more than you fair share of it! Let us know you you get on. Take care Wray
Feb 20, 2012
 God Bless You for this Web-Site, I Now Feel Normal
by: Debi

I was 39 years old when I had a tubal-ligation. With-in two months of having it I was diagnosed with low thyroid and put on Synthroid. Within a month of that I had a seizure. Since that time I have had seizures off and on for eleven years. They have all happened just when my period is about to start.
I have questioned three neurologists, several G.P.'s about whether the seizure were happening due to hormones. They claimed it was "impossible". I have had EEG's, MRI's, and CAT scans done which all have come out normal. I am now seeing a holistic doctor that is more agreeable. However, she is wanting to put me on estrogen as well as progesterone. I don't understand the point. Although, I must say I am menopausal. I have only had two periods in the last year and prior to that I was having my period every two weeks. The only other physical 'symptoms' I am experiencing are hot flashes and headaches... but generally only at night. Other than the seizures. I do divide my doses of progesterone. I do get very nervous and I cry at commercials and silly things like that as well.
I would appreciate your input. And again, God Bless you for this web-site. It has take me a very long time to find a long list of women who have the same type of problem. I now know this is a medical issue that really should be addressed.
Also, for those who are interested there is a Doctor, Ray Peat, who, if you Google his name has a lot of info on progesterone and seizures. Another doctor, could be the one in Boston, Russell Blaylock. Although, there is a doctor at one of the Boston Research Hospitals that his first name begins with Andrew. There is another doctor who does a lot of research on epilepsy and progesterone whose last name is Herzog. I can't recall his first name. Could be the same man. Obviously, I am going by memory here. If I find this info I will post it. Hope it is helpful.
Feb 21, 2012
 Thanks for posting
by: Heidi

Just glad to see this thread is still alive, and to know there are even more connections to be made between seizures and hormones. I'm still having my seizures but they have lessened in severity with progesterone. Still, once a month whether I'm ready or not! No periods though. I turned 50 November of 2011. Can't help thinking it'll all be over when the hormones stop fluctuating. Just makes me feel so much better to know it's not just me. Hang in there with me! Life sure does just keep right on going.
Feb 22, 2012
 God Bless You for this Web-Site, I Now Feel Normal
by: Wray

Hi Debi It is amazing how so little is known about catemenial epilepsy, or that which occurs during Peri-menopause, usually the tail end. I've actually just done a web page on this topic, as so many women suffer from them needlessly, see here. There are plenty of papers you can take to your doctors if need be. I do recommend a vitamin D test, as a low level of this is implicated in seizures. You don't say how much progesterone you are using, but it appears too little if you are have hot flushes, headaches and are very emotional. I have just finished a page on Hot Flushes too. I normally recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. Ray Peat is amazing, I have often referred to his site, a wealth of info, plus I give links to his pages. This is the link to his epilepsy page in case others are interested, see here. You only have to read through it to see you do not need any oestrogen! Russell Blaylock has written an excellent book on excitotoxicity. Please let me know how much progesterone you are using and in what form too. You might like to read our page on Peri-menopause. It gives more info on how to use the cream. I'm sorry you had the Tubal ligation, as it can cause problems. Thanks for the kind words about the site! Take care Wray
Feb 22, 2012
 Thanks for posting
by: Wray

Hi Heidi Good to see you on the page again. I would ask you to increase the amount of progesterone you're using, you don't say how much. But you shouldn't still have seizures. And did you have the vitamin D test done? I have written a page on Epilepsy now, it gives info on vitamin D too. Take care Wray
Apr 10, 2012
 Seizures and peri-menopause
by: Anonymous

Thank you so much for your commentary. I have been having random nocturnal seizures and even work in the field of animal medicine. Didn't know that hormone imbalances can cause seizures. read your article and realized the connection to my menses. Thanks!
Apr 13, 2012
 Seizures and peri-menopause
by: Wray

Hi there I'm pleased the epilepsy page helped you. Hormones are more often than not overlooked if seizures occur. Take care Wray
Jun 20, 2012
 perimenopause and seizures
by: Anonymous

I can't believe other women have had some of these symptoms. I have been going through perimenopause sence i was 42. I am now 50. In the last 4 months i have had 2 nocturnal seizures. I have been to two different er's and had all tests done. They gave me anxiety pills and said rest. The dr told my husband they did not know if i had really had a seizure or not. I woke my husband up both time gasping for air and shacking and blood coming out of my mouth where i had bit my tongue. I'm afraid to goto sleep at nite and my husband stays awake to watch me. Any advice please help.
Jun 21, 2012
 perimenopause and seizures
by: Wray

Hi there I'm sorry you've been through this, and the apparent indifference of your doctors. If the anxiety pills they've given you are benzos please get off them immediately, they are highly addictive. There are many nutrients which help Anxiety, are you in fact anxious? I mean were you before the seizures, obviously those would make you so. I have never heard of anxiety causing seizures, panic attacks yes, but not seizures. Please read through our page on Epilepsy, it might give you some clues. And the page on anxiety to see if they are panic attacks. In both cases progesterone does help, although for seizures you will need at least 400mg/day if not 500mg/day progesterone. Panic attacks respond to less. As you're in the last years of Peri-menopause please read through this page. And you might like to read our page on Menopause too. The two seizures you've had, did they follow a particular phase in your monthly cycle, it would help to know this. Take care Wray
Jun 22, 2012
 seizures and menopause
by: Anonymous

Thanks Wray for your advice. The first seizure happened in Jan.,I went 316 days without a period. For two weeks before that my breast became extremely sore. I had a panick attack in my sleep and one when i woke up 2:30 am. Shortly after that is when i had my first seizure. The same morning. About three weeks ago my breast started to get sore again but nothing like the first time. Two weeks ago i awoke my husband up having another seizure. A week later I started having panick attacks. They lasted four days. Also, before all of this starts to happen I will have some really bad night sweats and heart palpatations. Sarah
Jun 25, 2012
 seizures and menopause
by: Wray

Hi Sarah It's very apparent you are having a surge of oestrogen each time, ie your ovaries have not yet stopped producing it. But you will not be ovulating at all, which means there is nothing at all to counter this sudden rise in oestrogen. I've found the worst possible symptoms occur when there is no progesterone available. For instance this often happens to women at ovulation when they can get migraines, panic attacks, heart palpitations, seizures, and asthma attacks. Oestrogen rises exponentially about 50 hours prior to ovulation. Progesterone should too, the surge has nothing to do with ovulation and comes from the brain, see here, here, here and here. But if this surge does not take place, oestrogen badly affects the women. The other time these extreme symptoms occur are in the last few months of peri-menopause, when ovulation has ceased. For instance your Breast Tenderness is caused by oestrogen, it's an excitatory, inflammatory hormone, and also causes water retention. I gave you the pages on anxiety and seizures which explain those. We also have a page on Hot Flushes too. Continued below.
Jun 25, 2012
 seizures and menopause Part 2
by: Wray

Hi Sarah I need to do a page on heart palpitations too as so many women get them. Understandably as oestrogen causes prolongation of the QT interval, which results in palpitations, arrhythmia and Torsades de Pointes. Whereas progesterone shortens the QT interval, see here, here, here, here, here and here. If you do decide to try progesterone please use sufficient, although I recommend 100-200mg/day, I feel you'll need at least 200mg/day if not more to begin with. There's info on all the pages I've given you on how to use it. Take care Wray
Sep 05, 2012
 perimenopause allergies/seizures
by: Mary

Since I started perimenopause I have been having a
lot of food allergies but the strange this is I always feel like I am fading and my throat feels tight and of course I panic so I am sure that do not help, But I cannot not help being afraid. I usually take benedryal but sometimes it do not help. HELP HELP HELP anyone ever had these problems? I have not had a cycle in 8mo.I am 52yrs
old and so scared
Sep 06, 2012
 Throat Feels like it is closing up.
by: Sarah

GOOD Morning Mary, i have the very same problem. I have not had a period for over 205 days. The week before what I think is my period week I start having the feeling that I cannot swallow or I'm going to choke. I take extra calcium and that helps me a little. Sorry I have no real solution for you, but just know you are not alone. I am 50 and have been goinging through this for the last 8 years. It has felt like a life time of hell. It does help to know that others are going through some of the same symptons. Good Luck and heres to better days. Sarah
Sep 06, 2012
 perimenopause allergies/seizures
by: Wray

Hi Mary Oestrogen can make us more sensitive to allergens. It's an excitatory, inflammatory hormone which increases mast cell secretions. Progesterone on the other hand inhibits them, see here and here. Oestrogen also causes smooth muscle to contract, progesterone to relax, hence your tight throat. It appears you are not using enough progesterone, so it's stimulating oestrogen. For more info see our page on Oestrogen Dominance. I recommend 100-200mg/day, more if symptoms are severe. We do have a page on Peri-menopause, and as you are nearing menopause, please see our page on Menopause. Take care Wray
Sep 07, 2012
 Progesterone
by: Sarah

Does any one know why progesterone cream makes me very nervous. I have tried it three different times and I start having thoughts of suicide. I stopped using it two years ago and I have not had these thoughts again. I do have panick attacks and anxiety once a month even though I have not had a period in 210 days.
Sep 08, 2012
 Progesterone
by: Wray

Hi Sarah It appears you were using a very low amount, possibly 20mg/day? I've found it needs to be at least 100-200mg/day to help. Often more is needed, particularly if you have Anxiety and panic attacks. Progesterone is excellent for both these. The page also lists other nutrients which help too. For instance the B vitamin inositol is also excellent, see here, here and here. As you are now in Peri-menopause, or possibly Menopause you might like to look through these pages too. And if you should consider using progesterone again, please see our page on Oestrogen Dominance too. Take care Wray
Oct 17, 2012
 Really Young
by: Erica

I am only 29 but I have started to have hot flashes and after a hot flash I have a seizure. The doctors did EEGs and an MRI they both came out normal. They put me on 5 different meds and nothing has seemed to help. I felt like I had hit a brick wall. I asked many times, "Can this be female related because I have a hot flash before and I am really to young to be going through menopause?" I was brushed off and told that was not likely. I am so glad I found this page. This may not be my problem but maybe it will lead me over this brick wall I have seem to have hit. Thank you.
Oct 18, 2012
 Really Young
by: Wray

Hi Erica Do you know when in your cycle you get the hot flush followed by the seizure? To my mind both are very evidently hormone related. Progesterone can help seizures, please see our page on Epilepsy. There are a number of nutrients which can help too, all listed on the page. We also have a page on Hot Flushes too. The evidence points to excess oestrogen for these, and although there aren't any studies, oestrogen is probably involved in the seizures too. A drop in progesterone can cause them. This drop skews the ratio of progesterone to oestrogen. Oestrogen is an inflammatory hormone, plus it increases glutamate release in the brain, see here. Glutamate is our most excitatory neurotransmitter. Progesterone suppresses the glutamate response, see here. A lack of vitamin D can cause seizures too, see here, here, here, here, here and here. Please have a test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. If you should consider using progesterone, please use sufficient, I recommend 100-200mg/day, sometimes more is needed. We do have more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
Oct 19, 2012
 the lack of knowledge doctors have about peri-menopause and menopause/and seizures Showed all of them an article about this but no answers these were new onset not as a younger adult.
by: Anonymous

I would like to be able to help others, I wish hormonal studies would have been done at peri-menopause and menopause on me. I agree stress, lack of sleep and other menopause symptoms add to problems but new onset seizures which at first I didn't recognize, the first neurologist wasn't sure but brought the word up( seizure] her demeanor was horrible, I fainted at work no grand mal seizure, by the time I was going to the ER I was awake. One episode I recognized with my husband and friend , words did not come out of my mouth correctly. The other was a shifting of my eyes when driving, by the time I got home went about my day,but remember I was already plagued by every day menopausal symptoms Just trying to survive like other women who suffer. This all happened over a 2 year period but by Labor Day of 2011, I had a grand mal seizure with 3 days in the hospital now on medication for over a year now. I would have liked more help from physicians. This new neurologist contemplated taking me off some of the medication when I asked for this but said "You don't want to have seizures. " I hope some day , some doctor will take the time to study these issues with women, especially, when it comes to seizures. I might have one hormone level taken by gyn doctor but the timing of the hormone I was on not the right time. I come to the conclusion if women have a strange cycle or have started menstrual periods late or don't go through the menopause til late in life this should be looked at. Maybe in ten years or more from now, something will be in place to help ladies through this and the 12% or more who start new onset seizures at peri-menopause/menopause which has been documented.
Oct 20, 2012
 the lack of knowledge doctors have about peri-menopause and menopause/and seizures
by: Wray

Hi there Very few of the medical profession take cognisance of the studies done on what is known as catamenial epilepsy. It is a recognised problem, they even have a word for it! The withdrawal of progesterone at the end of the monthly cycle causes it. Seizures can also occur around ovulation too. And of course in Peri-menopause with dropping progesterone and normal oestrogen. We do have a page on Epilepsy you could look through. Apart from progesterone there are a number of nutrients which can help too, notably the amino acids taurine and glycine. A lack of vitamin D also causes it too, see here, here, here, here, here and here. Please have a test done. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Jan 31, 2013
 There and back
by: Julie

I have been thru hell and back. I have MS, Auto immune hepatitis in remission and i had viral meningitis in October which caused 2 seizures. since then i went on keppra but i started stuttering so they put me on oxcarbazepine. I was doing good until jan13th when i had a seizure. Then again i had one on the 13th and i went into hosp. They did a 24 hour monitor eeg for2 days and saw nothing. I went home on 17th and had a seizure again on the 21st. They hospitalized me for5 days and did the eeg with the video and took my seizure meds away. On the 24 th i had a seizure and nothing showed on eeg. I should mention that fduring the first seizure on the 13th i got my period and following the seizure on the 24th my period started again. I am 38 and my mom started menopause at 38. The eeg shows nothing so they believe its stress and i need a therapist. I am not convinced. Do seizures from perimenopause show on the eeg? My whole life is upside down. My husband and kids r a mess. My doctors are now calling them events not seizures. PLEASE HELP!
Feb 01, 2013
 allergies to food
by: Anonymous

since beginning perimenopause I have become allergic to so many food help anyone ever heard of this and my asthma has been terrible
Feb 02, 2013
 There and back
by: Wray

Hi Julie How patronising to call them 'events'! If you have MS, plus another autoimmune problem, and you had meningitis, and now getting seizures, your vitamin D will be rock bottom. Please have a test done. Your progesterone will be rock bottom too, and your oestrogen high, certainly the ratio of the two will be very skewed. And it's the ratio which counts. We've found from Saliva Tests we've done, that the P:E2 ratio should be 600:1 and over to feel well. It seems to me little point in checking with an eeg, when they should be checking your hormones. The timing of your seizures is perfect. The term is catamenial epilepsy, which they should know, the ancient Greeks knew it! The definition is ........"Catamenial epilepsy is a subset of this population, which includes women of whom their seizure exacerbation is aligned with their menstrual cycle. Women with catamenial epilepsy are unusually sensitive to endogenous hormonal changes. This seizure exacerbation has a statistically significant positive correlation to serum estradiol/estrogen levels and ratios.", see here. What could be more simple than that! We do have a page on Epilepsy you could look through. 38 is very young for Menopause, are you sure you don't mean Peri-menopause? The average age for menopause is 51, with peri-M starting 5 to 10 years prior. The amino acids taurine, glycine and GABA all calm brain activity, they would certainly help. Oestrogen is an excitatory hormone, it stimulates glutamate, our most excitatory neurotransmitter, see here. It increases free radicals, plus destroying beta-endorphin neurons in the brain, these produce endorphins which promote a feeling of well being and relaxation. To counter the excess oestrogen you would need to use at least 400mg/day progesterone. Anything less will stimulate oestrogen leading to more seizures, the last thing you need. Please have a vitamin D test done, and let me know the results. And consider taking the calming amino acids too. Take care Wray
Feb 03, 2013
 There and back
by: Anonymous

I went to the doctor on friday and he said that if it was catamenial seizures the seizure i had would show on the video eeg and if it was due to vitamin d the eeg would have shown abnormal brain waves and it didnt so i must have conversion disorder. He said if anseizure doesnt show up on a
The eeg its definitely conversion disorder and is not seizures but they r keeping me on seizure drugs. I am going to my primary doctor on monday. They want me to see a therapist.
Feb 03, 2013
 allergies to food
by: Wray

Hi there Excess oestrogen can increase sensitivity to allergens. Oestrogen is also an inflammatory hormone, plus it constricts smooth muscle, of which there is plenty in the lungs. Progesterone relaxes smooth muscle, and is in fact helpful for asthma, see here and here. And any respiratory problems, see here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. If you wish to consider using progesterone, please see our page on How to use progesterone cream for more info.
Continued below
Feb 03, 2013
 allergies to food Part 2
by: Wray

Hi there Please have a vitamin D test done, as a lack of this reduces the benefits of progesterone, and is also vital for the lungs, see here, here, here and here. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Feb 03, 2013
 There and back
by: Wray

Hi there I hope your doctor can help you. If not you could try progesterone. But I do suggest you have a vitamin D test anyway. Take care Wray
Feb 05, 2013
 There and back
by: Julie

Well my doctor refusedntontest my vitamin d but is putting me on a vitamin d booster. I have an appt with gyn but they wont see me until march 26. I had a seizure thismorning again but i am trying to just continue my life. I have 3 kids 10, 7, 6 and dont have time for this and the doctors have written me off. Cross your fingers that booster works.
Feb 05, 2013
 A Year Later
by: kim

I posted here over a year ago because I was having seizures no one knew what was wrong. It always happened around my period-right before or after. Only 1 showed up on the eeg. I was on keppra for 6 months with horrible side effects. I spent a week in the hospital for a video eeg and had what they called a few "events" because they did not show up on the eeg. Not so ironic that my period came the next day! I told my neurologist that I still experience "something" before most of my periods & she said it sounds like some kind of imbalance and can't help me with it.
I went to my gynecologist in the fall because I had another "event" the timing still the same. I was relieved to hear this dr. Say she knew what I was talking about and was suggesting progesterone but I had to get cleared from a hematologist for risk of clotting. My vitamin D is low but my dr says that's ok?! The genetic mutation MTHFR I have is a mystery as to how it affect people, but since I haven't had any blood clots like my mother I'm ok there too. My gyn said to see how I do this next month and let her know, yet she wants to see me next year. With no interventiont, how can it be any different? Still hearing questions about stress. I've never been a stressful person, but dealing with all of the doctors and hormone changes is really getting to me!!
Feb 08, 2013
 There and back
by: Wray

Hi Julie Do you know how many iu's of vitamin D you were given? A boost is good, but levels drop very quickly after having it. It needs to be taken daily. You can have the test done yourself, it doesn't cost much. For more info on vitamin D levels, test kits etc see the Vitamin D Council, GrassrootsHealth and Birmingham Hospital. Blood levels should be 70-100ng/ml (175-250nmol/L) and not the 30ng/ml (75nmol/L) most labs and doctors regard as adequate. The minimum daily dose should be 5000iu's per day, although recent research indicates it should be 10,000iu's per day, see here. Take care Wray
Feb 08, 2013
 A Year Later
by: Wray

Hi Kim Progesterone does not cause clotting! It actually thins blood, stops clots, atherosclerosis etc, see here and here. And here, here, here and here. And here and here. Low vitamin D is not ok, how on earth can anyone say that. That also thins blood and prevents clots, see here, here, here and here. Please have a test done, or do you know what your level is? Please consider taking it too, but above all you need progesterone, please consider using that too. There's more info on our page How to use progesterone cream. Take care Wray
Feb 13, 2013
 It's driving me crazy
by: Sheila

I am so glad to see I am not the only one. I had my first seizure 3 1/2 years ago. I was 45 and was taken to the hospital. I was released with all my tests coming back normal. I had another seizure about a year later and started seeing a neuroligist regularly. I have been taking Lamotrigin ever since. I still have those moments that I'm not sure what to call them. I can usually tell when it is coming. My husband and children have witnessed several of them so they don't get so scared because they know what to expect. I usually get very confused and can't understand what they are saying to me and I talk like I'm stupid. I sometimes loose control of my bowels, but not often. After it is over I am very tired and have to lay down for a while. It usually takes a couple of days to feel better. I did not think to keep track of my moments being tied to my cycle but I will now. I Just saw my neuroligist two days ago and all he did is suggest that I go into the hospital for them to verify for sure that it is an epileptic seizure. He also suggested weening me off of Lamotrigin to see if I have a seizure. As you all probably know, life is not that simple, especially when you have kids. I have an appointment with my obgyn next month and will discuss everything I have read on this website with her. It's just hard to find the right dr. This is so frustrating and scary and it makes me feel so much better to see that I am not the only one.
Feb 16, 2013
 It's driving me crazy
by: Wray

Hi Sheila No you are not alone, in fact many women develop seizures in Peri-menopause, with it's dropping progesterone levels and normal oestrogen. Oestrogen lowers the seizure threshold, but it's never checked. It's an inflammatory, excitatory hormone. It stimulates glutamate, our most excitatory neurotransmitter, see here. It increases free radicals, plus destroying beta-endorphin neurons in the brain, these produce endorphins which promote a feeling of well being and relaxation. Beta-endorphins also appear to boost the immune system, protecting against cancer, see here. This paper says "It has been shown that chronic estradiol exposure results in the destruction of greater than 60% of all beta-endorphin neurons in the arcuate nucleus .....This loss of opioid neurons is prevented by treatment with antioxidants indicating that it results from estradiol-induced formation of free radicals", see here. Whereas progesterone protects against glutamate toxicity, it also increases BDNF (brain-derived neuroptrophic factor) in itself protective, see here and here. It also protects against calcium induced excitotoxicity, see here. We do have a page on Epilepsy you could look through. Progesterone is successful at reversing them if the problem is hormonal, so please check when you get the 'episode'. I'm amazed doctors never check hormone levels to see if they have a bearing. Luckily a few do, a customer sent in this excellent link which explains the mechanism behind them, see here. You might like to read her page too, lots of info on it, see here. Good luck with the obgyn! And let us know how you get on. Take care Wray
Aug 09, 2013
 not alone
by: linda

i am going throuugh the same thing and i started keepin records of mine after being put on anti seizure med but at least i know now when it happens i am 38
Jan 02, 2014
 I started to cry
by: irene

I started to cry when I read these I am not crazy and I am not having mini strokes that's what the drs have been telling me , started two years ago and the one this past weekend was the worst lasted two days being in a fog not having control and right side of face droop I never went to dr because they keep saying its a T.I.A mini stroke and I know that's not what it is I am so happy I really thought I was going crazy this is great thank you so much
Jan 02, 2014
 DR'S dont listen
by: Anonymous

I went to the drs and I told her about this sight and that I think this is what I am dealing with and all she will do is send me to another neurologist do all kinds of tests again that they have already done, this is so frustrating this seems to get worse every time it happens I feel like I'm going crazy and no one will help me, I worry I will miss to much work and lose my job I cant work when it feels like everything is spinning or to foggy in the head I don't know its hard to describe I just know I hate this feeling
Jan 11, 2014
 Me too
by: Venus R.

On Monday of this week, Jan. 6th I "passed out on my toilet" was aware that I had done so until my 14 year old daughter told me that she was going to be late for school. Apparently I had been there for an hour with my head between my knees. After taking my kids to school, I made an appointment to see my doctor. By this time I was nauseous and had a really bad headache. I was examined by the nurse practicioner. She decided to admit me to the local hosp. for observation. The office manager drove me to the hosp. and since I knew most of the people working there it was a easy transition to the patient room. (I'm a RN at the same hospital). Upon giving my information I felt a strange "disconnected" feeling. All I remember is one of the nurses saying "She's having a seizure" and me waking up with an IV started in my left arm and no memory of any of the seizure happening. I spent two days in the hospital, with a really bad head ache, my tongue sore from where I bit it and a huge bruise on my left leg I don't know what from. I just found out today that I will be getting my drivers license taken from me for 6 months and I am very distressed about this because I am a Home Health nurse....What can I do?
Jan 20, 2014
 Test came back..
by: Venus R.

hello...well you where right..my vit. D level was low, my progestrone was also low...I now think that is what caused my seizure. I am still having difficulty with the disconnecting feeling. Been having headaches every day since having the one seizure. Hate having to have my mother drive me around. Or my boss to see patients. I go wednesday to see the neurologist....I hope to get off of the Dilantin.
Jan 21, 2014
 Drs
by: Anonymous

I have an app. on thurs. Jan.23 and I am worried that it will just be a waste of time,
all the Drs seem to do is send u for more tests they don't want to listen and they have already done all the regular tests its time to step outside the box and find out what this is because I am on the edge. Yesterday was another bad day just foggy and yuk it was the end of over two week period and no matter what I did nothing helped,I really can't take much more everyone around me thinks I am not really sick .
Jan 22, 2014
 Not really sick
by: Venus r

I know how you feel. I saw the neurogist today which is a a 4 hour drive. She did change my medication to something not as harsh as Dilantin . I will discuss my further hormone imbalances with a gyn. So for the next 6 months I will have to have a driver drive me from patient to patient. And have my parents take me shopping or pick up my children . I've accepted my fate and will bide my time...
Jan 24, 2014
 frustrated
by: Anonymous

I have went to neurologist and he was no help, I even took my Daughter and we both stressed how we think it could be related to menopause and he shrugged it off said it could be migraine headaches put me on Plavix blood thinner and wants more tests at Sunnybrook. I am so sick of Dr's not listening I had a headache when I left and now I don't know what to do I've given up on drs I think I will just try the cream and vit. D and see what happens because if I go to one more dr that don't listen I really think I will snap this has been going on for over 2 years and I have no answers I am so frustrated what am I going to do if no one listens these speels are very scary .
Feb 12, 2014
 so glad I found this
by: Wanda T

I started having seizures at the age of 19. Over the course of many years of tracking my seizures, we determined it was hormonal. In 2001, dr gave me Lupron shots for a year and I didn't have any seizures. So at 32, I had a hysterectomy. I was then taken off my meds. I was seizure free for 13 years until last week when I had a nocturnal seizure. I have been under some incredible stress due to my mother just being diagnosed with bladder cancer. For the last 4-5 months, I have been having issues with falling and staying asleep (never been a problem) and hot flashes. I haven't been on HRT for approx 10 years. In the last year I have also lost 60 lbs and still need to lose another 40 lbs. The seizure just about sent me over the top so I have began searching online, because I was already aware that finding a dr with knowledge about seizures and hormones was next to impossible. Thank you for the wonderful info. I feel I need my hormone levels checked.
Feb 17, 2014
 seizures at menopause
by: Anonymous

I started with these seizures at about age 43.
As stated in other comments I felt odd, a lapse in
time for a few seconds. I would often get a tingling sensation over the side of my face. Had
a grand mal seizure awhile later. All sorts of
tests, all normal. I started having great difficulty sleeping. I would wake up, heart
pounding, short of breath over and over again.
Had more tests, all normal. I was put on Dilantin
by neurologist. My gyn suspected low progesterone, but tests were normal. I have now gone through menopause and these incidents have decreased but once in awhile I still have a little
seizure activity. My neuro said I will have to stay on the seizure med my entire life. My gyn is hesitant to give me progesterone.
I do find it happens when I am stressed, tired.
Not so much now, but in the past coffee would often bring it on as would a lot of sugar. I'm not diabetic and I am overweight. It has been nearly 15 years since it began. Hope I helped
someone.
Feb 20, 2014
 sleeping problem
by: Anonymous

I have been having problems when I sleep and I'm not sure if I am having spells through the night or what, I can feel all my muscles tighten almost contracted and when I wake up in the morning I feel like crap my whole body is sore and my whole day is yucky. I am almost exhausted and I got enough sleep I just don't understand it, I go to bed a little early so I can deal with this because I wake up cramped and try to loosen up and I wake up drained.

I would like to find out if it is part of pre menopause I go next week for tests they keep saying I have been having mini strokes and I really think it is something else, this has been two years of tests yet no answers lets hope they come up with something this time because they really don't listen much.
Feb 23, 2014
 migraines and seizures
by: Lisa

Hi there, I am 41 and live in the UK. Since New Years Day I have been having 5-6 seizures a day. I have also suddenly started getting migraines. The seizures have been classed as non epileptic. I had a coil fitted a few years back due to gynie problems so don't have periods anymore. How can I find out if the seizures and migraine are due to peri menopause?
Feb 28, 2014
 another test
by: Anonymous

Hello

I went for a brain scan yesterday and while I was there I had a so called mini stroke, they panic a little and I told them I am all right this is why I am here its not a stroke find out what it is. So having one right there is a good thing I think maybe it will show up on the scan and I may get some answers I hope, today I feel like crap drained my get up and go got up and went but if I get answers it will all be worth it.
May 21, 2014
 another test ~ results?
by: Anonymous

Hello Anonymous, that sounds very hopeful (and sounds like you managed very well) the mini-strokes happening during the test. You mentioned that the test would likely show it? What did you find out?
Jun 10, 2014
 Seizure disorder affected by horomonal levels
by: Anonymous

It's so comforting to read all of these posts. I was diagnosed with seizures when I entered puberty. I am 52years old and have been controlled on meds for over 25 years. Recently I found that I am having twitching in my thumb and overall not feeling great. Back and neck issues as well. I am also experiencing a lot of stress. I have had MRI and EEG most recently, all negative. Now I'm supposed to do another ambulatory take home 72 hour EEG. I am so upset to think that seizures may start again. In past 4 months my levels have drastically gone into menopausal levels. I showed epileptologist and he said it had nothing to do with anything. I don't know what to do first but I am going to look into everything everyone is suggesting and speak with my nutritionist. In your experiences Do the seizures go away once you pass the menopausal period of time?
Jul 04, 2014
 looking for answers
by: started seizure action at 47

All of a sudden at age 47 had a grand mal seizure during sleep. woke up with ambulance attendance and very confused. I had noticed this seizure happened while ovulating. Two months later had 2 seizures in a row while sleeping. My husband took me to hospital and they put on Dilantin. Noticed that I started my period 2 days later.

I also had feelings of `disconnections` not knowing what these symptoms were. I feel so awful on this med. Could all of this be due to peri-menopause. Could this be due to hormones.

Please help
Jul 15, 2014
 Living with seizures
by: Samantha

I started having seizures when I was just 5 yrs. old, but then they stopped till I was 16-the time that I had my first period. I've been having them ever since; that's been for about 27yrs. I found out that pms and early menopause causes them..stress and anxiety does alot too. I had to go on disability about 3 yrs. ago, because my seizures kept me from working. I used to drive about 20 yrs. ago, but was at the wheel and was by myself in the car when I had a seizure without my knowledge. I woke up about 2 inches from a tree head-on. That day I drove home, and haven't driven since. It's been hard, and I've still been having seizures to this day. Sometimes I feel so alone, and sometimes just want to cry, wondering if someday these will ever end?! I pray that all of you stop having seizures, because I don't feel like mine ever will. God only knows.
Jul 21, 2014
 I have just sobbed my heart out reading this!
by: Lisa R-H (UK)

I had a brain tumour removed 7 years ago and have had no problems since until about 18months ago when I started having strange 'blips'. I've been to the doctor and he reasssured me that my bloods do not show any sign of problems in my brain and that when he looks is my eyes my brain is clear. My bloods do show that I am in the peri-menopause. My LH and FSH levels are really high but 'normal' for the peri-menopause. I have been terrified that the doctor is missing something and have asked for a referral back to the neurosurgeon who did my op as I thought I was having 'petit-mal' seizures. They are not anything like the seizures I had before I had the tumour removed as they were tonic clonic. I have been keeping a record of my odd sensations and 'blips' and they all happen in the luteal phase of my cycle, although I do not bleed every month. They are in fact much worse when I don't! I am so relieved to see that there is a correlation between peri-menopause and seizures. My doctor has been so reassuring that nothing is going on in the brain (tumour wise) but I have been so anxious and stressed about it that I have probably made things worse for myself and increased the frequency of this episodes as they usually always occur when I have stressed! This site is amazing and you would not believe how relieved I feel after having read this. I am still awaiting an appt with the neurologist but now at least I can also go armed with all this additional information. I just hope and pray that my MRI and EEG (if they do some, which I'm sure they will) are clear and like all of you these 'blips' are peri-menopause related. I can totally relate to everyone's comments about driving. I had to surrender my license for 3 years back when I had surgery etc and it was a nightmare. My husband and I decided that I should not drive until I see the I neurologist so I feel like I am back to square one and that I have totally lost my independence although I know what I am doing (not driving) is he most sensible and safest thing for everyone as I would not want this to happen when I was at the wheel! Mine tend to happen at bedtime or when I am tired or stressed. Thank you everyone for being so honest and sharing your experiences. Thanks for this site!!
Sep 16, 2014
 update
by: Lisa R-H (UK)

I posted in July and have finally had an MRI scan. Just got my results and thankfully it is clear so now Im going to ask to see an endocrinologist and find out about progesterone therapy.
Sep 17, 2014
 update
by: Wray

Hi Lisa Sorry we missed your comment, both Joy and I are a bit drained at the moment answering all the queries. I'm so delighted by your results. I do wonder about the reception you'll get asking an endo about progesterone! They seem to know so little about it, and usually condemn it in spite of all the positive studies done with it. If you'd like to chat to a therapist, please get hold of Julienne via her email…… julesvs19@gmail.com She lives in London. Take care Wray
Jan 07, 2015
 I'm 44 and just started having seizures
by: Toni

Ok,so in July 2014 I apparently had a seizure in my car in the bank parking lot. I did not wreck, I must of lightly hit the man in front of me, he called 911, but was gone when I came to. I came to, to EMTS around me telling me I had had a seizure. Get MRI, CT, EEG and they all come back normal. Nuero says see you later. FF to December 19, and I apparently had some kind of seizure at home in kitchen. I had been in there cooking and then my son comes and finds me crying on the couch, I had dropped a glass and was talking funny. But I came out of it and he and my hubby realized what had happened. 3 hours later I apparently have another one and they call 911. Go to ER, they do CT, its fine. But right before they are going to release me, I have a 3rd one. They knock me out and transfer me to another hospital with neuro on duty and do an MRI. It comes back fine. They have put me on keppra and I see a new neurologist on January 12. I just happened to come across this hormonal link - I did start my period 2 days after this last event. Cant remember about before. I need my doctors to listen to me.
Mar 05, 2015
 Menapause/ seizures
by: Amy

i had my first seizure in August 2014 several actually ... My husband found me in bed having one . I choose not to go to the hospital only because I was getting migraines so bad I was blacking out and had gone to the er twice . I had set up an appt already for an mri because the er dr thought there was a link with migraines and seizures and I have a history with migraines ( 20 yrs) I was on a preventative so we couldn't figure out why and what was happening !!! Mri was normal they sent me to a neuro and he told me I was under a lot of stress , but I noticed that my seizure activity had slowed down by this point. Three months had gone by..... So they did a sleep study my periods are happening every 2 weeks my seizures are only happening at that time of hormone change leading up to during ...... Sometimes during sex! I'm almost 44 ... My Drs are not listening to me and Ibkeep racking up thousands of dr bills for them to say your stressed and we don't know how to help you .... My son has epilepsy most of his life I do know a few things about seizures I do believe my seizures have something to do menapause , my hormones I am stressed ... They are right ... Because they are not listening this has not happened until August of last year .... It's happened it front numerous people and family .... I've learned to deal with it . I'm trying to find what I can on this so I can find the right Drs maybe?
Mar 05, 2015
 stiuped Drs
by: irene

Hello

I have posted before and have still got no help from Drs they call my spells mini strokes ,and now I am going through breast cancer I have 5 or6 mini strokes they say durning chemo I keep telling them its the stress and its not a strokeI just call them spells and wait them out,they dont last long 10 to 15 min. they really drain you and on top of chemo i am just about done.
Mar 05, 2015
 Mine was Low!
by: Toni

Well I got my ob/gyn to check my progesterone levels, it was way low, I am now taking a RX progesterone. I have KNOWN FOR YEARS my hormones were off, no one would listen. I still don't know if this is the cause of my seizures, but I still think so.
Apr 14, 2015
 age 56
by: Kimghds

I am so encouraged at all of these posts and the sharing that's gone on... I turned 56 in November and had just taken my last very low dose birth control pill after deciding that it should be time for menopause. I started having hot flashes during late January which was no surprise to me, mostly during the night. Then it February they started during the day.. The real scare came when one evening while making supper I started feeling funny...not off balance or dizzy, just like a strange sensation in my head...and I suddenly couldnt' get a sentence out! I knew what I wanted to say but I could only get one or two words out! It lasted about 30 seconds and then it all "cleared"...I have had tremendous stress for several years now, so this scared me to pieces. I saw the neurologist and he has ordered an EEG and MRI. I also had blood work done, which he said was ok.. BP was up but now is back down... so I know that's just all of the anxiety. As soon as I get the test results I am going to inquire about hormones and seizures for sure !! The timing of this is just too strange for me, who has never had any health issues at all.... I appreciate any and all thoughts, comments, and perspectives. Thank you all and God Bless !
May 09, 2015
 Seizures after so many years
by: Karen

I was diagnosed with epilepsy back in 1997 when I was 24, after I had had a grand mal seizure on New Years Eve and another four months later. On both occasions I remember they were near the start of my period and the day had been stressful and I had not eaten yet (both around 6.30pm). I was put on Tegretol tablets 800mg per day. Before the grand mal seizures I had experienced left arm twitching for at least a year and in-line with my periods starting after a stressful time in my life. The twitches continued after medication but the grand mal seizures stopped. FF to 2001 when I my meds were reduced as I planned pregnancy. I have had 2 children and during the pregnancy all symptoms of twitching disappeared only to return after breast feeding stopped. My medication levels were never increased and I learned to live with the twitching but then 2 months ago I had a grand mal seizure at work. I have a coil so I am not sure of my cycle but I am 43. My Tegretol has been increased to 1000mr per day, but I have since had another grand mal seizure and many other symptoms, burning feeling in cheeks, heart pounding (particularly at night) pins and needles sensations in left hand and fingers, something like electrical wave through my cheeks and numbness in mouth and tongue, unable to recall words and general feeling of anxiety. I am still going through blood test and waiting to see a neurologist again, but when I saw some of the comments here, could I be peri-menopusal, is this why this is happening to me now? Your comments would really help.
Jun 03, 2015
 seizures due to peri-menopause
by: Mary Wilson

Dear Jeanette from (Concrete, WA), Hi my name is Mary Wilson, I was 34 when I had my 1st seizure. I was with my bf in a Halloween store joking around all of a sudden I started seeing flashing lights. I asked him, Hey do you see those flashing lights? I remember him saying no, then waking in a ambulance. He told me, that when I asked him that he turned around n my eyes rolled back. I was holding on to his arm n he says I went so stiff he thought I died. I went to hospital, all they did was blood work n ct scan. They told me I had a seizure, but I was fine, it would probably never happen again! The only thing abnormal was my prolactin level was raised in my pituitary gland, n they did not know why. I have been having seizures ever since that day, they have never given me final diagnosis. But, my Mom has been really good at keeping records, it seems they always get worse right b4 and right after my monthly cycle! So, I seen ur story n would really appreciate it if you could tell me the name of the doctor in Boston! Sincerely, Mary Wilson Good Luck To You!
Jun 15, 2015
 Seizures
by: Trish

I had my first seizure 2 years ago at the age of 41. I had my second one almost a month ago. They did some tests on me and my vitamin D levels were too low to detect. I started taking vitamin D but he didn't seem too concerned. I have also mentioned peri menopause but thought I was still too young. I'm tired all the time and when I'm talking a different word comes out or I can't even think of the word. I feel lightheaded all the time and feel out of it. I Also realized I had both seizures on the first day of my period. I have panic attacks quite a bit and get these heart flutters. I thought I was going crazy.I am glad I saw this article and know I am not the only one who feels this way.
Jul 16, 2015
 Sudden onset epilepsy with premenopause
by: Heidi

I'm post menopausal at 53 now, but when I was 41 I was going into premenopause. My cycle had always been very regular, and was becoming unpredictable. My doctor suggested birth control pills for regulation. They were the 3 month on, 1 week off sort. These were giving me mild but annoying side affects and I decided I'd rather have the irregularity. So without telling the doctor, I quit them quite suddenly. Two days later I was in the hospital with a migraine. I had never even had a regular headache before. I include this prelude in case it's relevant.

A week or two later I had my first seizure; an aura and brief unconsciousness. I continued to experience these for about six months and then they stopped entirely. Five years later they came back, but milder; most of the time there were no blackouts. Even though I was now POST menopausal, I experienced 2-3 seizures regularly once every six weeks. I requested progesterone cream therapy from a doctor and he relented. It helped but did not control the seizures. Another doctor prescribed a low dose hormone patch. This was effective for 3 months but it gradually became ineffective. We discontinued those and I reluctantly went to a neurologist who put me on Lamotrigine. I've been on that for 2 years. The seizures are VERY mild but not completely controlled at one every 8 weeks.

I'd like to know if all this is a result of that first experience at 41 when I suddenly stopped taking the birth control pills. Also, if I'm post menopausal, why are the seizures so regularly timed? I also wonder where the migraine fits in. I do get a good headache after seizures now.

Thanks in advance.
Jul 28, 2015
 LOL
by: Heidi

See that? I forgot I'd already told this story! I'm weaning myself off the Lamotrigine. I'm trying a product called Epi-Still, along with high omega3 fish oil and vitamin D. If I remember (IF lol) I'll post an update.
Aug 17, 2015
 seizures
by: Anonymous

I am 45 years old and had never had a seizure in my life. My periods have been abnormal for a couple of years. About 5 months ago i had a full blown grand maul seizure. Spent 4 days in the hospital. Then last Thursday night it happened again. I have hade my license restricted and everything. But after reading your story it all sounds very familiar. The doctors tell me they dont know why i have had them . My husband wants me to go back to the doctor but i don't know which one to see. My 3 older children are moved out but i do still have a 13 boy at home and all of this is freaking him out. I honestly don't know what to do.
Lynn
Oct 03, 2015
 Age 45, seizures.
by: Mary

I had my first blow with this in 2012, but I didn't actually blackout/faint, however it was scary: sweating/tingling-pins and needles that left me unable to use my arms for a time.

After a trip to the Dr, it was discovered I had hypothyroidism, and I started quite the journey with that.

Now it's 2015, and I had my first seizure 2 months ago, figured it was just down to my being too hot in a jacuzzi, shortly after knee surgery, but yesterday I had my second one, and there wasn't a shower in sight as I was outside on the street.

I am Pmsing, may even get my period today, but I still feel very groggy/out of it. I am scared to go outside for fear of another one! I have a big day out with my boyfriend tomorrow and I am so scared it's going to happen again.

Anyways, thanks for the info here. I have PROGESTERELLE, not sure if anyone here uses it? Also I am going to start Vitamin D supps again asap.

Sigh, life can be really tough.
Oct 05, 2015
 It sure can.
by: Heidi

And so ridiculous that this is happening after a lifetime of perfect health. Hard for me to comprehend. It sounds (to me) like yours are hanging around just below the surface. Before I was taking the lamotrigine I'd feel like that for about a week. It felt like I wasn't there. I'd sit on the couch in silence. Not depressed necessarily, just sorta gone away. That doesn't happen anymore.

I went back on the lamotrigine because the epi-still didn't do the job. The next bout of seizures came early and lasted longer. I should get back to the doctor to see what to do next since it's been over a year and I'm still having them. I still think it's VERY odd that I can predict them just like I could my periods. Except for this last one being early, they're every 8 weeks without fail. Really thankful for that. Plus, they're only nocturnal now since the lamotrigine. All I have to do is take a sleeping pill (usually just one night) and that stops them. I'm still hopeful they'll just trickle away and leave me alone eventually. Good luck to you!
Oct 13, 2015
 thank you
by: Anonymous

Oh gosh, without this thread, I would have gone crazier! But yes, because of this, it somehow explained a lot about my "condition". Yes, the symptoms start during my period...... the disconnect, deja vu, a 10 second you are there but not there moment...... these happens! That's why I just want to say thank you so much because without this thread (and website), I had nothing to show my ob-gyne.....

Cheers to all women, we are so unique :)
Oct 14, 2015
 happened again
by: Venus rankin

Well a quick update. Last October I had another seizure. When I woke up I had been laying on my blow dryer for approximately 30 min. Receiving 2nd and 3rd degree burns to my back. The blow dryer was melted. After being off work for 3 months for burn therapy I went back to work. This time on seizure medication. So far so good, no seizures in a year! Hate taking the medication though!
Oct 14, 2015
 Progesterone
by: Toni

Ladies, please have your progesterone levels checked, I'm almost positive that mine being way low is what caused mine. I now take 200mg of Progestin at night. I am still on Keppra - have not had any more seizures.
Oct 15, 2015
 Been there, done that.
by: Heidi

I tried progesterone in every form for about 2 years. It only served to change the pattern of my seizures. I can predict mine almost to the day but with progesterone they were all over the place. I was so sure it would do the trick; I was very disappointed. I'm glad you've found something that works for you! :D
Dec 09, 2015
 hormones and seizures
by: Kirsty

I am currently 46 years old. Last year, On June 24 2014, I had my first ever Grand Mal seizure at 4.30 am - fell out of bed - hit my head, concussion, black eye,etc - woke up to paramedics and ended up in hospital. After MRI and EEG it was detemined that the seizure was caused by stress/ lack of sleep etc ( I am a single mother of 18 and 19 yr old, owner of a busy hair salon. The siezure had happened 2 days after my sons graduation and being up for about 18 hrs, two days in a row...... However, 3 months before my seizure, I had had the mirena IUD fitted and had been having numbness in patches on my left side. Gyno siad it was nothing to do with the seizure. After the seizure and some research, I immediately had my IUD removed and the tingling went away. I spent the past year trying to be healthier and less stressed. Prior to IUD I had been on birth contol pills since 16 but due to excessive work stress the doc suggested IUD was less inavsive.

Since then I have had no birth control out of fear. Fast forward and year and a half and while I was on a cruise a few weeks ago, I had a really odd day where I felt like I was going to collapse ( hard to explain) I thought maybe I needed to eat because I had just done a spin class and although I felt better for eating, i still felt odd.....that day I got my period and the next day I was 100% better. Two weeks later I had my second seizure and then felt terrible for the next two weeks until I got my period again. This time I was put on keppra and still watiing for MRI and sleep deprived EEG but totally convinced that it cannot be a coincidence that I feel so odd, then suddenly amazing the day I get my period.

Not sure what the next step is for me but will for sure look into hormone and vitamin D deficiency but appreciate any advice or suggesions on this subject.
Dec 10, 2015
 It can be very frustrating,
by: Heidi

But don't let anyone try to convince you there's no connection between the seizures and hormones. It's too obvious to us. There ARE doctors out there who know what you're talking about, or at least are willing to have an open mind. A few posts up someone suggested printing this thread out to show the doctor. That's a great idea.

I have a new development. My (mild) seizures have been very predictable to the day. Throughout this time, I've noticed that all my premenopause symptoms had stopped completely. No hot flashes, no chocolate cravings, I even didn't have to use deodorant! Which I thought was weird but pretty cool. All that time I was having my predictable seizures every 8 weeks.

Well. It's been THREE MONTHS since my last seizure. And guess what's back? Yup, the hot flashes, the chocolate cravings and the stinky armpits. I sure don't mind the trade-off but for the past 2 years I thought I was completely menopausal. My hormone tests said so.

So when I'm like, 60 and undoubtedly menopausal, will the seizures resume and last the rest of my days? Will they resume next week and take me by surprise? I don't know, and I don't try to make sense of it anymore. For me, it is what it is and all I can do is keep my fingers crossed and take the lamotrigine. Which I hate. And right now I'm pretty sure I don't need it but of course I can't stop.

Let us know if you find a doctor who doesn't dismiss you! Good luck.
Jan 18, 2016
 Peri-menopause and seizures
by: Elizabeth

Since my transition to peri-menopause had similar experience in terms of seizures attack, truly scary and inconveniencing. How effective is progesterone in this case? Is it only temporary until 'full menopause' especially if one did not experience such attacks in the past?
Jan 19, 2016
 Hi Elizabeth
by: Anonymous

I tried a topical progesterone cream in the beginning. From what I'd pieced together it seemed to make sense. But all it did was upset the timing of my seizures. Before trying the progesterone they'd kept a regular schedule, but while using the cream they happened at random. So it has an effect, but for me, not a good one. I assume progesterone probably works differently for each person. I'd suggest you try it but don't get your hopes up too much.

I lived pretty much in denial for several years after stopping the progesterone cream... there were no answers and I just needed to live my life! I DID assume (and I still hope) that this would all go away when I was in full menopause. Now, 10 years later (has it been that long?) they tell me I'm on the other side, hormones pretty much gone, but the seizures are still happening. I did finally give in, go to a neurologist and let him put me on Lamotrigine.

I would add that my seizures HAVE gotten consistently less severe with each passing year. I don't lose consciousness anymore, and I usually only have one seizure (instead of 5) every 8 weeks. Also, they used to happen at any given time during the day but now they're exclusively nocturnal. I take Lorazepam (a sleeping pill) for one or two nights and I'm done for another 8 weeks. Except for this last time... I was seizure free for 4 months! I was pretty bummed; I dared to think they might not return. But 16 weeks is better than 8!

I hope you see improvement! I'm seeing a new neurologist next month and I'm going to print out this forum and bring it with me.
Jan 21, 2016
 Premenopausal mini seizures and big
by: Anonymous

I have been having premonpausal seizures since I turned 38 I'm now 43....
They have givin me EEG,MRI,CT scan,and ultra sounds and nothing is showing ...
It started out as me just gettin what I call mini's where u brain goes into a different mode for a second to where if you talking it comes out jibberish and I may get a familiar smell or a memory ..Then I had my first major seizure about a year and a half ago then a second major one 6 months later and then another one bout 4 months later ..
I only gat these around my menstural cycles even the mini's .. They put me on Keppra awhile back and hasn't helped ..
They are gonna start me on progesterone next month cause there saying mayb my levels of progesterone are going to low and estrogen is to high..
I sure hope I can get this figured out cause it's so hard to work or do anything I need to and can't drive when I know when it's here .. Problem is ,is I used to be able to predict it more and now it's coming a little different .
Jan 21, 2016
 Make sure it's a natural, topical progesterone cream
by: Heidi

It would be wonderful if you could get off the epilepsy meds. For me, the progesterone just messed up the schedule, making them unpredictable. I'm on Lamotrigine now. After 13 years I'm still trying to figure it out. I also have that feeling where you can tell they're done. That part's really weird. You're pretty lucky your doctor is willing to have an open mind and isn't brushing you off. I've had 5 different doctors just sit there and look at me, not knowing what to even say. Hasn't boosted my confidence in doctors at all! Good Luck!
Jan 25, 2016
 Thanks
by: Anonymous

Thank you for this page for the past 10 years I have been going through early menopause I'm 51 about 8 years ago I went to mr dr who did a blood test and confirmed early menopause. I used to have a strange sensation if coming out of a warm bed into a cooler room or cooking n the kitchen and the eating in a cooler room, I used to have to stop what I was doing and wait for a weird sensation go through my whole body and feel it leave my feet. I then went to see a private dr as it was really upsetting me. I was only in the surgery for 10 minutes and he asked me to explain it, I said you know when you have de ja vue and he said I will stop you there and spoke to my husband for the rest of the appointment. I have had scans done and nothing shows on them. I am going back to the Drs as this sounds like something I may be going through. It is very upsetting and frustrating for me. Thank you for all the info.
Jan 26, 2016
 Catamenial Epilepsy
by: :(

a few days before my period, I always wake up with my lip smacking and my memory is deleted for the past couple of weeks. After, my taste is weird, memories come up that are crazy, I can't smell, and I get these weird urgent feelings....I cannot live life like this but the medicines have so many side effects...I am entering a depression
Jan 26, 2016
 Reply to Annonymous from 1/25/16
by: Toni

Hey there!! So in the summer of 2014, at 44, I started having some weird sensations, what I can only describe as deja vu. It was very weird. These went on for about 3 or 4 weeks, felt this sensation about 4 times during this. Then on July 16, 2014 I had a seizure while in the bank parking lot. (Thank God I was off the freeway!) Came to with EMTS all around me. Anyway, all tests normal, neuro decides not to put me on any meds (I was fine with that thinking, "oh I'll never have another one.) Fast forward to December 2014 and I had another seizure at home. All tests still come back normal. I am put on Keppra at this point. But in doing research, I had found this page, along with some others and started concluding that maybe hormones, specifically progesterone might be the cause. Went to my OB/GYN to get them tested, and sure enough my progesterone was way low. I now take a supplement. When I had that second episode - that very week, I had one of the deja vu feelings. So Iguess those are a mini seizure or some sort of warning that a bigger one is to come. I seep my neuro in April, thinking about trying to come off the seizure med.
Jan 26, 2016
 Hi there, :( -- ;)
by: Heidi

I feel like I'm mediating this board, lol.

It's very easy to let this condition upset you and bring on depression. Most likely we've all been there; I know I have. But when you look at the evidence, you can step back and take a more informed look at what's actually happening. I know it makes me feel less panicky as I realize that this is just a twitch in a certain part of my brain that just HAPPENS to play around with my senses. I actually find it a tad interesting. Your lip smacking and the funny feeling/taste/smell is classic. Your mild seizures (and mine) also cause this period of depression, but in a few days that feeling lifts and we can go about our business. There are FAR worse things! We'll conquer this!

Hope that helps.
Jan 27, 2016
 Seizures
by: Joy

Hi Heidi and all

Heidi I am not quite sure what you are mean by "I feel like I'm mediating this board, lol". What exactly are you mediating?

Wray has provided so much valuable information, with references regarding seizures etc on this thread, please read it.

Take care.
Jan 27, 2016
 No one is arguing, no need to feel like you are Mediating. :)
by: Anonymous

No need to feel like you are mediating. No one is fighting.
Jan 28, 2016
 I didn't mean anything like that...
by: Heidi

I think I meant "moderating". It was just a light-hearted observation because I'm commenting so much. I have a friend who moderates a message board; primarily all she does is simply pay attention to each post. That's what I've been doing. I won't continue. I wish everyone well.
Jan 29, 2016
 I didn't mean anything like that
by: Joy

Hi Heidi

Your input on Wray’s site is most valuable, so please continue to help those who read the posts. Wray moderates her website all the time so she is on top of things.

Take care
Feb 11, 2016
 monthly seizures
by: Anonymous

I too have been having this problem since 2002, it was before my tubal ligation. I am epileptic. I got the Vegas nerve stimulator put in and that didn't work. I tried different birth control pills, I also tried hormone lozenges that i put under my tongue and that was a negative.
I went to a male and female gyno about hysterectomy and that was a negative. My last resort was to go to a gynocolgical endocrinologist to see if they can help. They said they can put me on a monthly shot called lupron. I'm just waiting for insurance response. I got my fingers crossed.
Mar 05, 2016
 Will this stop ?
by: Lilly

Hi to all,

If I use progesterone cream and vitamin D will the seizures stop?

Kind regards, Lilly
Apr 02, 2016
 Wow
by: Tracy

Four years ago started to have this déjà vu spells ( seizures it's was they are calling them) blood work showed it was premenopausal. But doctors don't believe they are hooked together. Are doing nothing to help me with it. Last week told off one doctor for not helping after four long years. I want answers. I want help . I'm no lier . Migraines, depression, anxiety feel like I'm hanging off a cliff n ready to jump. Made an appointment with Woman's Health Care next week hope to get help. I can't take no ones listening to me. I bleed for one day . It's brown. I know my hormones are playing a part of all this . I want me back:/ Just need a doctor to listen, just one. And to thank you all I'm not alone or crazy .
Apr 04, 2016
 Wow
by: Joy

Hi Tracy

It is so sad, if only doctors would do their research properly and think of actually helping people instead of saying that we are crazy!! You certainly are not alone and you certainly are NOT crazy. There is clear evidence that the two are linked.

I am not going to suggest pages to read as they have been repeated a few times on this thread. But please have a Vitamin D3 test.

All the best.
Apr 05, 2016
 To Tracy
by: Anonymous

Tracy - what city are you in? Look up Hotze Health and Wellness - its here in Houston, TX. I would have gone to see him but b/c insurance companies think he's a quack, they don't cover his services and therefore can be pricey. But I have read his book and it was very informative.
Jun 15, 2016
 to Tracy
by: Toni

I have the deja vue too!
Jun 16, 2016
 hormones and seizures
by: Kirsty (aged 47)

Interestingly after 3 seizures in the past two years (none in the rest of my life) I have been going through similar "hormonal" problems. (see my past post)

After doing my own research, i made my GP do blood work to test my hormones and it showed I had zero progesterone...I had stumbled across this website before that but I find it really interesting that so many of u suffer the same symptoms but I agree that even my neuro is reluctant to connect hormones with seizures.

I feel so much better now that I am on the progesterone....the weird numb patches have stopped (as of now) and I think that you have to figure out what triggers your seizures in order to try and avoid (in my case lack of sleep and fatigue, too much sugar - I'm not a doctor but i kept a diary and those were the things that made me feel weird in the night......

Its a very complex thing for sure..
Jul 09, 2016
 So glad I've found this site
by: Bodynsoil

I found this site after hours of online research. I never had a seizure until I had a full year of no menstrual cycle. I'd been feeling odd at times with periods of wooziness and being dizzy, emotional, with hot flashes; all symptoms I attributed to perimenopause. Leading up to my first seizure, I had recognizable sensations of a pending cycle that week; along with woozie feelings and dejavue like dizziness. The first seizure was 1st thing in the morning without warning. Almost exactly a month later, I had the same pending menses symptoms, then felt flush and the dejavue wooziness came over me; next I had my 2nd seizure. Hospital tests show nothing; I was frustrated that both male doctors told me hormones had no correlation to seizures, which I found hard to believe.

Researching the internet I find information on catamenial epilepsy; it was at that point I started a vitamin regimen and felt better overall. Five months later I start feeling like a period coming, my emotions were a wreck, I started feeling woozie, and within days had another seizure.

I've always taken good care of myself, eat very little processed foods, no soda, and drink plenty of water. I find that as a person who has been so involved in health and fitness, that I'm struggling with an undiagnosed illness that has seemingly halted my life as I knew it.

All three episodes happened when I was either underfed, feeling hunger, or first thing in the morning;I also felt dehydrated. I have a neurology appointment in a few days; I'm bringing this article with me as I'm thinking it's hormonal not neurological.
Jul 09, 2016
 migraines and perimenopause
by: Anonymous

last year when I went into perimenopause I thought the world was great. after suffering with migraines since my early teens they stopped completely, or so I thought. the aura and headaches were gone but after a few months of feeling better, my family started noticing that I was going into spells where I couldn't think of words and just generally couldn't remember what I was talking about mid conversation. my granddaughter went to the store with me and caught me on video and I had no idea where I was or what I was looking for. dr time. brain dr put me on antiseizure meds and it helped the other world times but it brought back the headaches but no warning aura now. too many meds between then and now and just got off effexor to help the headaches. big mess and I wish we could get everything under control. second round of Botox for my migraines next week. I hope this gets better sooner rather than later.
Jul 10, 2016
 So glad I've found this site
by: Wray

Hi Bodynsoil Thanks for the kind comment about the site. Catamenial epilepsy is a recognised problem, extraordinary that the doctors didn't know this. I only hope the neurologist does know this and doesn't dish out a cocktail of drugs. One other thing you should look at is blood glucose. It's evident you are affected by a drop which can cause seizures. You mention…….."either underfed, feeling hunger, or first thing in the morning". Try to incorporate more fat into your diet, particularly at night. Your blood glucose is dropping overnight, hence the morning seizures. Glutamine can help too, about 4000mg taken at night. The other supplements mentioned on the webpage are worth trying too. Particularly vitamin D, magnesium and taurine. You might like to look into the ketogenic diet, which is a high fat diet. It's used successfully with intractable epilepsy, which luckily you don't have. Here are some links……
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC1vMBRFiwE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkQYZ6FbsmI
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2016/05/14/cereal-killers-2.aspx
http://www.westonaprice.org/know-your-fats/william-banting-father-of-the-low-carbohydrate-diet/
http://ketonutrition.org/#
Take care Wray
Jul 14, 2016
 Thankyou
by: Anonymous

I too have had these unusual spells. Tracked them on the calendar and they are every 24days or there about. I did go to dr and was put on anti depressants. Off to a new dr next week and with this information I should get the right help. I'm 50 and my family are worried about my once a month strange absence state. I thought it was hormonal. Thank you
Jul 22, 2016
 So glad to find this!
by: Confused.com

Hi
I was diagnosed with catamenial anaphalaxis, and can find no forums like this for support. I was glad to find you guys however, because the conditions are So rare and even my gp get to look it up!
Jul 26, 2016
 Magnesium and Primrose helped
by: Robin

Hi again. I went back to another Dr and they still wanted to check bloods, and suggested I see a neurologist. I am telling them it happens every 24 days so it must be cyclic and linked to hormones. Anyway I bought Magnesium and Evening Primrose tablets on way home and having four of each a day and I am feeling so much better. I feel like my energy and strength returning. So I think I'll look into the Progesterone cream next. Thank you for all the support and comments they have help me.
Sep 02, 2016
 Lost
by: Anonymous

I have been having these Aura's every two weeks for over 9 months....MRI's, Blood work, EEG...Nothing! I thought it might have been related to my shingles (on my face) back in 2012. These Aura's last over 30-40 seconds and I don't remember a thing. My doctor (Neurologist) just prescribe topromax saying i was having silent migraines...WHAT!!! I have never had headaches in my life but an occasional/seasonal sinus headache(which has been years since my last one) These meds are making it worse. So I started to research more into this thinking maybe it has to do with menopause. Im 55, had a hysterectomy almost 6 years ago. Never thought it could be that my progesterone is low...back to check on this.....Any other suggestion would be greatly appreciated....!!!!
Sep 09, 2016
 too much progesterone
by: Anonymous

the other day, my period was trying to start and I was feeling horrible, so i decided to up my dose from 20mg morning/evening to double 40mg x4 a day, the morning dose was fine, but when i did the next two pumps around morning tea, I felt like i was dying, it was very dangerous as i was driving and i literally thought i was losing my mind, i was suicidal and my heart felt like it was going to explode, i somehow got home and i washed all the cream off, scrubbed it off and laid on the ground for a few hours hoping i didn't have to call an ambulance, what was happening to me?? I honestly couldn't cope with that happening again, ti was dangerous. Can anyone explain it. :( I thought it must be oestrogen dominance surging up but how can i make it through? can you go low and slow over a few months? i have a very sensitive system
Mar 22, 2017
 Too young
by: Anonymous

Am forty one since Oct. 3,2016. I had been experiencing issues also. That was when I was around thirty three years old! I had a gyn say welcome to menopause before actual menopause. I am too young I told him. Then he asked me three questions. 1, how old was your grandmas when they went through it. 2.how old was your mom when she went through it. 3. How old was your sister when she went through it. All three questions I answered the same way, I don't know.

They all had hystorecatimes. He said then we will never know the age when you can come into menopause. Got read a little story of ten things to the start of menopause. I have eight out of the ten. Scared and worried. My child is ten now and I start the major change of life again. Without support to turn to, I found this site, by some grace. It ain't fun getting old, but nature doesn't stop for anyone.
Mar 24, 2017
 Too Young
by: Joy

You are so correct in saying that nature doesn't stop for anyone. Some advice from me though. Work with it, not against it. Find solutions to help you and your current situation. You are off to a good start though by finding this website.

Peri-Menopause starts are around 35 years of age when progesterone levels start to drop. It can be a torrid time for some women, but it need not be with the help of a good quality natural progesterone cream. This prepares women for Menopause. A missed period for 12 months puts one in menopause. A hysterectory, no matter what age, whether a full or partial one, puts a women straight into menopause.

What is your Vitamin D3 level? A deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone, it is also connected to every single functioning cell in our bodies. This makes it vital. Co-factors are needed when taking vitamin D3.

Please read these pages as well as the references:

Peri-Menopause
https://www.progesteronetherapy.com/peri-menopause.html
Menopause https://www.progesteronetherapy.com/menopause.html
Estrogen Dominance
https://www.progesteronetherapy.com/estrogen-dominance.html
How to use Progesterone Cream
https://www.progesteronetherapy.com/how-to-use-progesterone-cream.html
Vitamin D3
http://www.progesterone-info.com/benefits-of-vitamin-d.html
Mar 24, 2017
 Too young still
by: Anonymous-christine

I have been having seizures also. My new neroulgist claimed them to be stress induced. Thus this is after i kept telling him i have a at least two to four a month. I told him before my period and after my period. The only thing qe agreed in is the menstrual headache. Seizures are scary and upsetting cause for every seizure ba dr can say no driving for however long they deem fit. My seizures can go for 5 minutes or longer.
Mar 27, 2017
 Glad your here
by: Christine

My daughter has caught me sleeping during some my seizures. Am thankful she has because without her I would not have known it. Also this last period of mine was awful. The PMS was unbearable. I had gotten the menstrual headache twice this time. One was two days before I started. The other the day, after I stopped. The last three cycles I would go, two days, have nothing on the third day. Fourth day the cycle was so bad I didn't even want to get out of bed. This time I spotted after I was done. And got blood on toilet paper, but not on my maxi pad. Am glad I found this site.
Dec 03, 2017
 I am not alone
by: Martha

I was diagnosed with menopause at the age of 55 when I started experiencing sleepless nights, minor forgetfulness, and partial complex seizures. I chose to try herb supplements over estrogen therapy for my menopause. For the Seizures, MRI's and Cat scans from three ER doctors and neurologist came back normal. I was prescribed Zonisamide.

It has been over a year now and I continue to have minor episodes every three weeks. Each time I told my neurologist about an episode, he just increased the medication from 50mg. to currently taking 150mg. I dont call him anymore. No one belived me when I said that I believed my seizures may be due to imbalanced hormones.

I am going to look into the progesterone and Vitamin D. I dont feel alone on this issue.

Thanks for sharing. Do you suggest oral or cream progesterone?
MG
Mar 18, 2018
 Pre menapause
by: Nessy

Ive had epilepsy since the age of 11 when I first started my periods. At the start the fits would be bad until about 16 yrs old and started to settle down, only having maybe 5 more till the age of 40.

Then last year, at 41, I started having twiching movements with my mouth which I've never had before and started to worry at this time, my periods had stopped for over 3 months, before this I had never missed a period in all these years apart from when I had my babies.

I went to my Dr. who referred me to a gyno who I explained everything to, I was so tired, sweating, scared, anxious, you name it I felt it. He decided to give me a provera tablets to restart my periods. After 5 days of taking this tablet I came on. My life after 2 months was feeling better again, no more side effects and my period carried on for 5 months and now its stopped again. I've booked back in with the gyni, its been 2 months now but I've got 3 more weeks to wait.

I'm so worried my symtoms will return before i see him. I feel we don't have enough information out there for people with epilepsy in pre- menapause as I was a bag of nerves when this twiching was happening.

If there is more information out there please get back to me.
Jul 02, 2019
 Sudden onset of seizures
by: Dee

My case is somewhat different from the posts I've read, but wanted to put my issue out there.

I am 50 years old with no history of seizures until 2 months ago, shortly after a total hysterectomy. I had not had a period for a year prior to surgery. I began having what I believe are focal seizures, although I have not been diagnosed yet. I have seen my primary MD, a neurologist and also went to the emergency room once.

Seizures include an aura, confusion, headache, nausea, fear and some arm tremors. Thus far, during these, I have remained aware of my surroundings and know what's happening. Episodes have been brief, lasting 45 seconds, at most, with extreme exhaustion, headache and nausea, after.

In general I am experiencing fatigue, fogginess, dull headache, occasional nausea, tingling in my face and head, forgetfulness. I have had an MRI (with some changes noted) whatever that means. A CT scan, bloodwork, a spinal tap, all normal results. I had an EEG which showed no seizure activity, but that just means I didn't have a seizure during the test. A longer EEG that I will wear home has been ordered.

It seems to me there is a connection to the surgery and sudden onset of seizures, which I mentioned to Neuro, but she doesn't think so. I am at a loss and am frustrated and nervous. Reading the posts I am just wondering if it's a possible hormone issue, but I don't know. I currently can't work or drive, which is causing a financial hardship, and I am just looking for answers.

Any feedback would be appreciated.
Jul 03, 2019
 Sudden onset of Seizures
by: Joy

Hi Dee

You could be correct in saying that your seizures could be hormonal see here. You are also suffering from Estrogen Dominance which could be helping to cause them.

Progesterone should help you especially if they are due to hormones. You might like to consider using a good organic progesterone such as Natpro which is a 3% cream. Between 100-200mg per day is needed, more if symptoms are severe. The How to use Progesterone Cream page will explain a lot more.

Make sure that your Vitamin D3 level is correct. Vitamin D3 is very important, a deficiency reduces the benefits of progesterone. Nothing less than 5,000iu's per day is needed. Optimal range is between 70-100ng/ml. Magnesium and vitamin K2 with no soy are important co-factors needed when taking vitamin D3. For more information on the importance of vitamin D3 please read The Vitamin D Council.
Oct 07, 2020
 Perimenopause n seizures
by: MJ

53 year old female started having seizures a-year-ago; doctors gave MRI, EEG; three different seizure Meds; sometimes have grand mal, sometimes petit; only thing helping with answers is menstrual cycle; after noting episodes, seizures happened during menstrual cycle; full cycle changed to spotting monthly still with seizure; then cycle stopped a few months here n there but still with seizure-petit; only consistent thing in this scary-ride is the emotional-hormone changes that accompany a menstrual cycle; the/my ride is not totally complete, the doctors haven't had many answers but i'm happy to say by God's grace with sites like this one i have found answers to help me; Thank You!!!
Dec 21, 2021
 Monthly hell
by: Anonymous

This is happening to me , stumbling on this is a breath of fresh air . I have a merina coil recently fitted to help , I’m wondering if I should ask for some progesterone tablets to balence out my eostrogen as the partial seizures due to this , I’ve been confirmed I’m in peri menopause 2 weeks ago , at the age of 40 , this started 6 years ago so you really can start it young.
Dec 21, 2021
 Monthly hell
by: Joy

I am so pleased that you are finding this website helpful, it's where I started my progesterone journey nearly 18 years ago!  I take it that you have read this thread, links and references mentioned.

Unfortunately all drug based Contraceptives have a potential to cause harm.  Please read the side effects and warnings of the Merina, the worst of them all to my mind. All oral progesterone is not the best Delivery Method as around 96% gets destroyed by the gut and liver see here. Please consider using a good organic cream such as Natpro which is a 3.33% progesterone cream.  Advice given on this website is based on this cream.

Please read the page on Seizures. You definitely are in Peri-Menopause which starts at around 35 when progesterone levels drop sharply and estrogen remains the same and there starts the battle with our hormones. The How to use Progesterone Cream and Estrogen Dominance pages will help you greatly.

Please make sure that your Vitamin D3 level is optimal, not only does a deficiency reduce the benefits of progesterone it is also vital for every single functioning cell in our bodies making it vital.  The cofactors mentioned are extremely important and mentioned.  The help to build our immune system and protect against COVID.
May 20, 2022
 Epilepsy and Hot Flashes
by: R. Mixon

I have had Epilepsy since a baby. I’m 73 and take VIMPAT for my Epilepsy. I looked up Endocream to get a few details on it. My mother used it all her life. After reading a few Comments, I decided to check the Medical Interaction with VIMPAT. I checked the ingredients of Endocream, since I cannot use Black Cohosh. It is really new to me that Women experienced Seizures during their menopause at younger ages. During high school years my seizures turned into pneumonia or the flu, where I was laid up over a week. I hope this may help someone, as well.
Jan 04, 2023
 Seizures started when peri menopause did
by: Jane Ryan

I gave birth to my 2nd child 6 years ago and had my first grand mall after 8 weeks with her and started my peri-menopause which I was completely ignored about as I was only 36 years old, I’m now 42 and am in post-menopause area and am still having seizures, throughout the last 6 years they have got increasingly worse and then have calmed down since going into post-menopause, I try everything with regards to diet and have tried some medication but none of the medications have worked and everyone keeps taking about the ketogenic diet and then we get negative talks about it through my nutritionist and endocrinologist, can anyone say what they think of it? My children are suffering so much with their mum having seizures it’s getting to much for all of us.
Jan 04, 2023
 Seizures started when peri menopause did
by: Joy

Hi Jane

I am so sorry to hear how this is affecting you and your children. You are not alone, in fact many women develop seizures in Peri-menopause, with it's dropping progesterone levels and normal estrogen. If you are still bleeding/spotting in any way, then you are still in peri-menopause. A missed period for 12 months puts you in Menopause.

Please read this thread paying attention to what Wray and I have already posted previously on Seizures. Read all the links and references.

Take care.
Jan 05, 2023
 Does it stop
by: Jane Ryan

Thank you so much for the reply so quickly, it was amazing to start reading all this, does it ever stop when you come out of post menopause? Many thanks
Jan 06, 2023
 Does it stop?
by: Joy

Hi Jane

I'm afraid I can't answer that.  However you would benefit greatly if you addressed everything mentioned on the pages and of course Natpro Progesterone Cream will help you greatly if used correctly. Everyone is different.  You will have to experiment to see what works for you and how it affects your seizures.  

Please take note of what it says about Vitamin D3.  It is vital for those suffering from seizures.  A Vitamin D3 deficiency is found in epileptics/seizures, especially those on anti-convulsants, a test is essential. The following websites will help you.

* Vitamin D Society
* GrassrootsHealth
* Birmingham Hospital

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