danner
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Joined: 10 Jun 2005
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 Posted: 12/14/05 - 10:09 Post subject: |
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Complex partial seizures impair consciousness and begin in a limited area of the brain. Single and brief complex partial seizures usually don’t damage the brain. Prolonged or repetitive complex partial seizures may cause slight but persistent memory loss, but more serious brain injury is rare. During a complex partial seizure, the person usually becomes motionless and stares or makes automatic movements such as fumbling movements of the hands. During and after some complex partial seizures, the person may walk or, in rare cases, run. Other behaviors during complex partial seizures may cause concern, but are not dangerous to the patient or other people. These include screaming, kicking, ripping up papers, disrobing, sexual-like movements, and, rarely, masturbation. If someone is known to have unusual automatisms, he or she should be led in a quiet and reassuring manner-not forcibly-out of public places, such as an office or store. The greatest danger of an unexpected seizure occurs when the person is driving a car or operating dangerous equipment. If the seizure is prolonged (more than 5 to 10 minutes of impaired consciousness with automatisms), or if there are three or more complex partial seizures, then medical help should be sought. If the patient is known to have a pattern of prolonged or recurrent complex partial seizures, rectal diazepam (Diastat) can be administered at home by family members to stop the seizures. First aid for someone having a complex partial seizure is simple: the person should be kept away from dangerous situations, use restraint only if it is necessary for his or her safety, and seek medical help for prolonged or recurrent seizures.
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