Since I'm on seizure medication (had one while driving) and failed my EEG, what is the possibility of being able to stay in?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 17:33:55 -0400

I had a seizure while driving I have to walk back and forth to formation due to it being my responsibility to be there. I’m on medication but I take it 3 times a day 6 am 12 pm and 6 pm so it effects my job. What should I do?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2022 6:20 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 18:20:33 -0400

Talk with your PCM. If you haven't received a P3 profile, you soon will. P3 profiles require going thru the MEB process. It's a safe bet you'll be medically released from service.

Response by COL Randall C. made Nov 5 at 2022 7:37 PM

COL Randall C. — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 19:37:14 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member, it's not clear from your question whether you are able to control your seizures with medication or not.

Bottom line: If you cannot control your seizures, you will not meet medical retention standards* and be processed for separation.

You are listed as a reservist - I assume you're an M-day Soldier and not full-time. If so, then a lot of stuff will only apply if it was incurred/aggravated in the line of duty (LOD). This means you'll have to prove that your seizures were due to your military service - the burden of proof will be on your shoulders because the assumption is that it was not.

If LOD cannot be shown and you do not meet medical retention standards, you'll be processed for separation (NOT sent to a medical board). However, you CAN request* in writing that you case be sent to a Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) for a formal review of your fitness for duty/LOD status.
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* AR 40-501 - Standards of Medical Fitness
* RC can request a PEB - AR 40-501, section 9-12 / AR 635-40, section 4-34

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2022 9:15 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 21:15:02 -0400

First off there needs to be a determination of the cause. I had mine and when I woke up the doc asked if I want

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Nov 6 at 2022 7:53 AM

Lt Col Charlie Brown — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 07:53:17 -0500

It sounds like you are headed for a medboard.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Nov 7 at 2022 11:07 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 11:07:10 -0500

I have a niece and a good friend with seizure disorders. Only through the use of prescription drugs and brain surgery have they been able to lead nearly-normal lives. Prior to brain surgery, neither was suitable for military service due to unpredictable seizures and continuous tremors. Post-surgery their lives have greatly improved. Both can drive and work but remain unsuitable for military service due to the side effects of the drugs and surgeries. One works with special needs children and the other is a clerical worker. Both enjoy the loving support of their families.

SPC Private RallyPoint Member, I would say you're in for a General Discharge, Medical. Please! have your military medical providers completely document your problems. If possible have them do neurological tests, CT scan, and MRI while you're on active duty.
You will need complete medical documentation for any future VA or Social Security Disability claims.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Nov 7 at 2022 12:35 PM

CSM Richard StCyr — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:35:05 -0500

Thank you for your service.
Unless something has changed the couple of Soldiers, I had who had seizure issues both were med boarded out.
One Soldiers' issues were associated with TBI due to IED strikes.
The other had residual effects from a brain tumor surgery.