What are the signs of a complex partial seizure?
A loss of consciousness or change in consciousness is one sign of a complex partial seizure. Most often a person just stares. He or she does not answer questions or follow commands. A simple partial seizure may come before a complex partial seizure. For example, some people may have an odd taste in their mouths or smell an odor. Other people may feel that they have already gone through what is happening. Other signs may include: • Smacking lips, chewing, or swallowing • Making a face • Making the same movement over and over, like picking at clothes or walking in a circle • Making sounds, like grunts, or repeating a group of words Often the person cannot recall all or part of what happened. He or she may be confused after the seizure. Most often, it lasts less than 15 minutes. Some symptoms, such as being tired, can last for hours. How are partial seizures treated? Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are medicines used to control seizures. But, even with treatment about 40% of people will still