Complex partial seizures start in one part of the brain, but can spread to other areas. During a complex partial seizure, a person may have a change in, or loss of, consciousness. When this happens, a person may become confused or experience automatisms—movements like chewing, fumbling at a button, or tugging on clothes that a person does without meaning to. Complex partial seizures may also produce psychic symptoms, like problems with speech, language and memory, feelings of strangeness, visual illusions, and sound distortions.
Having epilepsy means learning to understand what type of seizures you experience and what lifestyle changes might be necessary as a result. It’s an ongoing process . . . and it doesn’t all happen at once—there’s a lot to learn between diagnosis, starting treatment, finding the best treatment option, and achieving seizure control. Get tips for living with epilepsy.
See how others with epilepsy are making the most of treatment and living well with epilepsy on their terms. Visit EpilepsyAdvocate.com for inspiring stories, practical advice, and to connect with other people with epilepsy through L.I.V.E. speaking events, monthly e-mails, a magazine, and videos.
It’s a good idea to have medical information available in case you have a seizure when you’re not accompanied by a friend or family member who knows you have epilepsy, especially if you experience a loss of, or change in, consciousness. With our Identification and Emergency Wallet Card (PDF 70 KB), you can fill in all of the appropriate information, and carry it with you everywhere.
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