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Could random seizures be a response to dehydration?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am 27 years old and have no medical history. I had my first two seizures on Saturday and wondered if they were the result of extreme dehydration. I was in 82-degree weather, drinking excessively for the last three weeks (vacation), and also on a higher dose of anticholinergics (Glycopyrrolate), from 3 mg to 6 mg. I also had not eaten that day. I went to the ER out of fear, and they ran blood tests which came back normal despite the low blood sugar and high liver stress. Could these random seizures be a response to extreme dehydration in an otherwise healthy adult? If I stop with the Glycopyrrolate, could my chances of this not happening again rise significantly? Or should I see someone for a CT scan or something? Should I be expecting more, or can I make lifestyle changes and be alright? (specifically the Glycopyrrolate, maybe I was just taking an excessive amount). I have attached the reports.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Education:

Faculty of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka is a Neurologist with 12 years of experience. She completed her studies at the Faculty of Medicine and pursued a Neurology Post Graduation. Specializing in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, she offers expert care for conditions affecting the nervous system.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and would explain that your seizures could be related to Glycopyrrolate, which is known to lower the seizures threshold. Anyway, before coming to this conclusion, I would recommend performing an EEG (electroencephalogram), a brain MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and checking thyroid hormone levels. Your total protein levels are low, too (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). For this reason, I would recommend increasing proteins in your diet. I hope you will find this answer helpful. I remain at your disposal for any further questions whenever you need them.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you so much! Would this response count as a referral to get an MRI? Most of the places i have been looking at require a referral and I do not have a primary doctor. Would you recommend an MRI, and EEG, or checking thyroid hormone levels? I don't have insurance and am struggling financially, is there one you would recommend above the others? Also, the hospital where I visited for check-up gave me Fenitoina. They advised me to take it until I can get a scan of some sort. Should I continue taking this? Also, will there be an adverse reaction if I drink alcohol on this medication?

Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Education:

Faculty of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka is a Neurologist with 12 years of experience. She completed her studies at the Faculty of Medicine and pursued a Neurology Post Graduation. Specializing in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, she offers expert care for conditions affecting the nervous system.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Unfortunately we can just make recommendations and guide you through the right steps for diagnosis and treatment. I would suggest taking Phenytoin in the meantime. I would not recommend alcohol consumption as it may trigger seizures.

Hope you will find this answer helpful!

Kind regards.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 3, 2021
Reviewed At April 22, 2025

Education:

Faculty of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka is a Neurologist with 12 years of experience. She completed her studies at the Faculty of Medicine and pursued a Neurology Post Graduation. Specializing in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, she offers expert care for conditions affecting the nervous system.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

Faculty of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka is a Neurologist with 12 years of experience. She completed her studies at the Faculty of Medicine and pursued a Neurology Post Graduation. Specializing in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, she offers expert care for conditions affecting the nervous system.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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