Partial complex seizure

During followup appointments, the physician would probably want to review the need for drugs at least yearly. Drugs may need to be continued indefinitely. Plasma drug-level monitoring is important for continued control of seizures and keeping side effects to a minimum.

Pregnancy, lack of sleep, skipping doses of medications, use of drugs and medications or alcohol, or illness may cause seizures in a person with a previously well controlled seizure disorder.

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The patient may be advised to wear informational jewelry or cards (such as Medic-Alert) to help ensure prompt medical treatment if a seizure occurs.

Expectations (prognosis):

Seizures can occur as a single isolated incident, at closely repeated intervals (recurrent multiple seizures), or at various intervals (episodic, paroxysmal). Seizures that recur with little or no observable cause are most commonly associated with seizure disorders (epilepsy). This is a chronic, lifelong condition.

Seizures that occur singly or in a closely associated group are commonly caused by an acute condition such as brain injury. They may occur as an isolated incident, or they may develop into a chronic seizure disorder. Seizures within the first two weeks of a brain injury do not necessarily mean that a chronic seizure disorder will develop.

A seizure-free period may mean that medications may be reduced or eliminated. Medications should be changed only under the supervision of the health care provider.

Death or permanent brain damage from seizures is rare, but either can occur if the seizure is prolonged or many seizures occur soon after each other.

Serious injury can occur if the seizure happens while the person is driving or operating dangerous equipment. These activities may be restricted for people with poorly controlled seizure disorders. Infrequent seizures may not severely restrict lifestyle. Work, school, and recreation do not necessarily need to be restricted.

Complications:

aspiration pneumonia
complications of surgery
injury caused by seizure during driving/operating machinery
injury from falls, bumps, biting self
injury to others
performance of crimes or antisocial acts during seizure
permanent brain damage (stroke or other damage)
progression to generalized seizures
prolonged seizures, closely occurring seizures (status epilepticus)
psychosis (can develop in some individuals)
recurrent seizures (epilepsy)
side effects of medications (with or without observable symptoms)
women choosing to become pregnant should alert their doctor in order to adjust medications prior to pregnancy as many of the anti-epileptic medications cause birth defects