Managing the epileptic patient

A review of hospital charts revealed that only 3 (7.5%) of 40 inpatients with a diagnosis of epilepsy had received counseling about the disorder, its treatment, and its social ramifications. Although it is often neglected--as indicated by this small sample--proper and continuing patient education may dispel some of the damaging misconceptions and fears about the disorder and help the epileptic patient lead a full and productive life. Physicians should point out the importance of acceptance of the diagnosis, record keeping by the patient, awareness of precipitating factors, associated socioeconomic problems, and follow-up, stressing the possibility of normal life.