Paper Summary:

This paper discusses various aspects of the disease of epilepsy. It looks at the classification of the disease as well as its causes. The paper then discusses how epilepsy is diagnosed and the tests that can be used in diagnosing the disease. Finally, the paper looks at the treatment and prevention of epilepsy in its many forms, from medication to diets.

From the Paper:

"As to epilepsy being a disabling factor in the lives of those with it, the affect that the disorder creates varies from one individual to another and depends on how successful one's medical treatment has been in controlling seizures. Yet even if a person no longer experiences seizures, the mere presence of epilepsy will influence many areas of their lives, such as employment, school and other social activities. Whether or not the afflicted person is truly disabled depends on the advancement of the disorder and the number of seizures experienced at any given time."
"In the world of medicine today, there is still much about the inner workings of the human brain that are relatively unknown. Yet advancements in brain scanning and other techniques are giving researchers greater insight on how epilepsy works and why the brain responds as it does to the seizures. Obviously, with advances in genetic testing and the existence of the Human Genome Project, epilepsy could one day be cured and thus help millions of sufferers to live a "normal" and non-disabling lifestyle."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Chadwick, David. Living with Epilepsy. London: Optima Publishing, 1987. (An excellent book which explains in-depth how a person can cope and live with epilepsy. It also provides information on support groups for those afflicted with the disease).
• Devinsky, Orrin. A Guide to Understanding and Living with Epilepsy. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company, 1994. (One of the best sources for reliable medical and scientific information on epilepsy).
• Glanz, Walter D., Ed. et al. Mosby's Medical, Nursing and Allied Health Dictionary. St. Louis: C.V. Mosby Company, 1990. (A comprehensive reference aid to all areas of medicine).
• Preston, Robb. Epilepsy: Causes and Treatments. Miami, FL: Symposia Specialists, Inc., 1980. (Another excellent book that discusses all the major aspects of epilepsy. It also provides much information on what a person should do when someone is experiencing an epileptic seizure).
• "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down." Book Review. Internet. 2003. Accessed September 19, 2005. http://www.spiritcatchesyou.com/bookdescription.htm. (A very thorough review of Anne Fadiman's book which describes Lia Lee's battle with epilepsy, both medically and culturally).

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