Epilepsy
Language and learning disorder and epilepsy
These issues are often ignored by professionals when treating students with epilepsy even though they are often of greater concern than the seizure activity itself.
Epilepsy sufferers were noted by early neurologists to be more concerned by memory and attentional problems than with actual seizures. Clark (1897) reporting on his study of disturbances of consciousness of epilepsy commented that almost all epileptics were complained about their deteriorating memory. He further commented on similar concerns over attention deficits.
Svoboda (2004) mentions difficulties in language, facial recognition, planning and slower reaction time. These and other dificulties stemming from various forms of epilepsy can have a significant impact on a student's learning, self-esteem and social interactions.
Clark, L. A. (1897). Study upon the Disordered Consciousness of Epilepsy. New York Medical Journal. 66: 351-355. Cited in: Friedlander, W. J. (2001). The History of Modern Epilepsy. The Beginning, 1865-1914. Contributions in Medical Studies Number 45. Westport, Connecticut. London: Greenwood Press.
Svoboda, W. B., (2004). Childhood Epilepsy: Language, Learning and Emotional Complications. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.