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Epilepsy Health Center

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Simple partial seizures

Simple partial seizures occur in children and adults with some forms of epilepsy. They are about half as common as complex partial seizures.

The person remains awake and aware during the seizure. The seizure may be only a strange smell or taste, sound or visual disturbance, or feeling of confusion, anxiety, or fear-some people describe these sensations as an aura. The person's arms, face, or hands may briefly stiffen, tingle, flex, or jerk, but this does not always occur. Eyes may blink rapidly during the seizure. The person may cry out or may not be able to speak.

Recommended Related to Epilepsy

Understanding Temporal Lobe Seizures -- Prevention

Seizures afflict girls and boys equally, and are more common before the age of 15 and after age 65. Inherited seizures are more likely to occur in girls. Seizures occurring after head trauma are more likely in boys. For now, there is no way to screen for a seizure disorder before it develops. However, avoiding head injuries -- such as by wearing a helmet while riding a bicycle -- can reduce your risk of acquiring a seizure disorder.

Read the Understanding Temporal Lobe Seizures -- Prevention article > >

Simple partial seizures affect only those muscles or body parts controlled by the specific area of the brain where the seizure begins. After the seizure, the person may feel weak or numb in that area of his or her body (often one side of the face, one hand, or one arm).

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology
Last Revised October 15, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 15, 2009
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