Will taking seizure medication discharge me from the army?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 02:06:54 -0500

I joined the army reserve in august 2017. In the last 2 years I’ve had three seizures. Before that I had never had one. I’m scared to take medication for it for I fear I’ll be kicked out.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2021 6:27 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 06:27:00 -0500

I wouldnt think that in your situation be prescribed medication to take and actually taking it is different. You were prescribed medication for a medical condition that you have. Regardless of you taking the meds or not, you still have said medical condition. The real question is, can you still serve if you get seizures. I would strongly suggest that you take any medical advice that you receive on a social media platform with a grain of salt.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2021 9:10 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 09:10:11 -0500

You need to see a Medical Provider time now to see if the seizures alone qualify you for continued service.

Response by SSgt Richard Kensinger made Jan 14 at 2021 11:03 AM

SSgt Richard Kensinger — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:03:49 -0500

From a clinical position anti-convulsants often can reduce seizure episodes. There are a number of causes of seizures which can de determined via a comprehensive neurological investigation. And I am curious to know your MOS. You may put yourself and others at risk.
I wish you well.
Rich

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2021 11:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:17:51 -0500

Medication won't get you kicked out but having repeated seizures will.. Take your meds

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Jan 14 at 2021 11:31 AM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:31:59 -0500

From a Paramedic perspective...TAKE YOUR MEDICATION!!! The physical and psychological damage to your grey matter each time you have a seizure can be devastating health-wise. You've already been diagnosed with a medical condition, the Army knows about it, not taking prescribed medication will not change that fact. Your long term health is FAR to important to risk.

I honestly don't know if being diagnosed with seizures will automatically result in a med board or not. Your primary care provider can help you determine how severe the condition is, why you suddenly developed seizures, and whether they could disqualify you from service.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jan 14 at 2021 11:00 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 23:00:53 -0500

You need to have a serious conversation with your Primary Care Provider and find out what your way forward is. You also need to have the discussion about medication, treatment and what this all means for your career. It could be temporary or long term but you need to have that conversation.

Seizures isn't something you want to roll the dice with. This isn't joint pain you can just muscle through.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jan 15 at 2021 1:14 AM

CSM Charles Hayden — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 01:14:39 -0500

Are you saying that you might suddenly become unable to perform your Duty? Question answered!