Concerns About MRI Results in Context of Neuro Symptoms (Non-Epileptic Seizures)
Hello everyone, I'm a 25-year-old individual, assigned female at birth, standing at 5'4" and weighing 190 pounds. I have a complex medical history and a variety of medications that I manage. **My Diagnoses Include:** - Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome - Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (hyperadrenergic type) - Occipital and Hemiplegic Migraines - Sciatica - Multiple disc herniations (notably in the cervical region and a recent one at L4, just above where I had emergency surgery in August due to suspected cauda equina syndrome) - Scoliosis - Hip impingement/Femoral Acetabular Impingement (FAI) - Neurogenic bladder resulting from spinal nerve injury (cauda equina) - Osteoarthritis in the hip - Limb weakness and sensory loss - Degenerative disc disease - Sudden onset of non-epileptic seizures **My Medications Include:** - Doxazosin (recently adjusted the dosage considering potential seizure issues) - Gabapentin - Cymbalta - Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) - Lamictal - Nortriptyline - Metoprolol - Ubrevly as needed for Migraine management To summarize my situation briefly: About three weeks ago, I experienced an unusual episode where I was completely immobilized; I couldn't move or even blink. It didn't feel like mere anxiety; it was as if my body ceased to follow my commands. This escalated to losing consciousness and going limp while driving (I've since stopped driving). After going to the ER and having an episode in front of the medical staff, I was told it was functional and was discharged. However, within just two nights, my episodes turned convulsive and occurred in rapid succession, impacting my breathing. Originally, my neurologist was hesitant to provide assistance, prompting me to seek care from another specialist at the same hospital. Consequently, I underwent an overnight video EEG and an MRI. The EEG returned normal findings, leading to the conclusion that my seizures were functional, possibly triggered by POTS, a view shared by my dysautonomia specialist. I admit to being somewhat skeptical of the medical professionals after a prior experience left me with significant spinal damage leading to an emergency operation. Thus, I decided to review my MRI images, although I realize that I'm not well-versed in interpreting them. I came across a few dark spots that I marked and would appreciate a second opinion from knowledgeable individuals. Am I overthinking these findings? Thank you for any insight you can provide!
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 2:40:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to have concerns about your MRI findings, especially given your complex medical history and the distressing symptoms you've been experiencing. Let’s break this down clearly.
Summary of Main Points:
- Unusual Symptoms and Functional Seizures: Your recent episodes of immobilization and seizures are distressing, and it's reasonable to question their underlying causes.
- MRI Findings: It’s natural to worry about any abnormalities you see on MRI, but these need to be interpreted with the context of your overall health.
- Next Steps: Prioritize monitoring your symptoms and maintaining communication with your healthcare providers while managing your current conditions.
Explanation:
When MRI results are discussed, particularly in the context of your symptoms, it's important to keep in mind the following:
- Functional Seizures: These can be caused by various factors, including underlying psychological or neurological issues. The normal EEG suggests that there may not be a structural cause, but rather a functional one related to your conditions like POTS or the impact of your Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
- MRI Interpretation: The dark spots you noted could represent a range of things, from benign anomalies to areas of concern depending on their location and context. Only a qualified specialist can give you an accurate interpretation based on your entire clinical picture.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Record the frequency, duration, and context of your episodes, along with any triggers or associated symptoms such as changes in heart rate or dizziness. This will be helpful for your doctors in understanding your condition better.
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Communicate with Your Specialists: Share your concerns regarding the MRI findings with both your neurologist and the dysautonomia specialist. Ask for clarification on the areas you noted and whether they are of concern, emphasizing your medical history and current symptoms.
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Stay Informed Within Limitations: While it’s good to review your MRI, avoid trying to interpret it without expert guidance. Consider asking for a formal second opinion on your MRI results if you feel uncertain after discussing it with your current doctors.
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Emotional Support: Given the anxiety and skepticism you’ve mentioned, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can help you process your experiences, especially since stress can impact both your physical and mental health.
Remember, your health team is there to support you, and seeking clarity on these findings is an important part of your care. You are not alone in this, and taking proactive steps will help you better understand and manage your symptoms.
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