People often think of epileptic seizures as characterized by loss of consciousness and convulsions. These grand mal seizures actually occur in only 39-50% of people with epilepsy. Equally common, but much less well understood, are complex partial seizures, which can occur in a variety of ways, from altering consciousness so that the person may appear confused or dazed, to triggering hallucinations and complex or repetitive behaviors. Because of lack of understanding, people with such symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed as having psychiatric or emotional disorders.

Epilepsy: The Untold Stories features siz people who have Temporal Lobe Epilepsy, and who relate their personal stories of how their susceptibility to complex partial seizures has affected their relationships, employment, recreation, and self-esteem. They also suggest ways to cope with the condition. Interviews with healthcare professionals provide a clinical overview of epilepsy and of the medical means available for diagnosis and treatment.

This is an invaluable introduction to the subject for healthcare students and professionals, as well as for newly diagnosed patients and their families. It will also be a helpful tool for community outreach and for awareness training for caregivers and the general public.

Select Accolades

• Award of Excellence, American Medical Writers Association