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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My daughter has occipital lobe epilepsy/celiac disease. She had a recent breakthrough seizure when reducing meds and is now dealing with depersonalization, derealization, dejavu with smells at times, and what looks like panic attacks and anxiety. We have her on lacosamide. I am at a loss of what to do and absolutely need some insight. I feel horrible for my daughter. She is in therapy and has a psychiatrist who has prescribed gaunfacine at night to help with her night terrors they have helped… read more

October 18, 2025
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MyEpilepsyTeam

Anxiety is indeed common in people with epilepsy, affecting about 23% of patients compared to 11% in those without epilepsy. This higher rate is often related to changes in brain areas like the hippocampus and amygdala, which control both anxiety and can be where seizures originate. Visual disturbances are particularly Show Full Answer

Anxiety is indeed common in people with epilepsy, affecting about 23% of patients compared to 11% in those without epilepsy. This higher rate is often related to changes in brain areas like the hippocampus and amygdala, which control both anxiety and can be where seizures originate. Visual disturbances are particularly common with occipital lobe epilepsy since this area of the brain controls vision. It's important to work with your healthcare team to create a comprehensive seizure safety plan. Since your daughter is already working with both a therapist and psychiatrist, they can help monitor how the medications are working together. The visual symptoms she's experiencing are consistent with occipital lobe epilepsy, which can affect sight. While these symptoms may be frightening, having them documented helps your medical team adjust treatment appropriately.

October 18, 2025

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