Partial Seizure Disorders: Help for Patients and Families

by Mitzi Waltz

Some 2,300,000 people in the U.S. have one of forty types of epilepsy. The most well-known of these is epilepsy with grand mal seizures. However, forms of epilepsy that involve only part of the brain and do not involve convulsions are more common. Symptoms for these partial seizure disorders can vary some patients have no physical signs at all, experiencing only mental or sensory changes during a seizure, while others may experience numbing, shaking, or automatic movements of one or more body parts.Although partial seizures usually do not look dramatic to other people, they can have serious consequences for patients who have them. If left untreated, seizure activity may become more severe, occurring increasingly often and spreading to affect other brain regions. There is a possibility of permanent brain damage in some cases. The physical and emotional effects of partial seizures--dissociation, loss of coordination, memory loss, fatigue, mood swings, and physical pain, among others--can also make them very difficult to live with.The good news is that partial seizures are treatable. With intervention, patients can wrest back control of their lives. Partial Seizure Disorders helps patients and Author Mitzi Waltz, an advocate for children's neurological issues, has included the stories of dozens of patients and parents.

Genres: Health

288 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though I'm not sure that this is what my dd has, this book is one of the best non-fiction books I've ever read. Its written clearly and is so thorough in its information. I'd highly recommend it to anyone needing to learn more about seizures.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

An informative book especially for someone like me who was recently diagnosed. She talks in detail about symptoms, medications and recounts people’s stories. I’m sure I will continually use this book for reference.