THE EPILEPSY FACT BOOK

by Harry & Frances C. Minters Sands ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 28, 1979

This is a useful handbook geared primarily to epileptic patients--estimated to number two million in the U.S.--and their families. The symptoms, origin, diagnosis, and treatment are all described, along with new nomenclature--""petit mal"" and ""grand mal"" are out, various types of generalized and partial seizures are in. Many cases of epilepsy have their onset in childhood, and the problems of coping with the disorder and leading as normal a life as possible are sympathetically and fully treated. The message--delivered in a clear if bland institutional style--is mostly encouraging. More anti-epileptic drugs are available today than ever before; most cases can be controlled by medication and--thanks to sophisticated monitoring devices--dosages can be controlled to provide optimal results with minimal side effects. The stigma borne by epileptic patients is millennia old, however, and serious problems of discrimination exist in obtaining jobs or insurance, and in ordinary social contacts. The authors cite recent legislation barring discrimination against the handicapped, indicate how to redress grievances, and in general, provide an extensive catalogue of resources or agencies to turn to in dealing with all aspects of the disorder. The frequent references to the Epilepsy Foundation of America, one of several epilepsy health voluntary groups, can be attributed to that organization's major support of the book.

Pub Date: Sept. 28, 1979

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Scribners

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1979

Categories: NONFICTION