Epilepsy is a common, chronic neurological disease characterized by repeated, uncontrolled seizures. Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) is defined as a sudden and unexpected death in a person with epilepsy without any other apparent cause of death (e.g., injury or drowning). No one knows what causes SUDEP, however it occurs most often at night or during sleep and is generally unwitnessed. Current research into the possible causes of SUDEP focuses on problems with breathing, heart rhythm and brain function that occur with a seizure.
The figure lists many of the most common risk factors for SUDEP. The best way to prevent SUDEP is to have the best seizure control possible. This may involve actions such as:
- Medication compliance
- Seizure tracking and regular communication with healthcare team
- Consideration of other treatment options such as epilepsy surgery, devices, or dietary therapy
- Balanced diet, adequate rest and regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs
- Minimize stress, utilizing healthy stress relieving activities
- Awareness/avoidance of potential triggers
- Be seizure safe. Ensure family and co-workers know what to do for seizure first-aid, take extra precautions around water, including swimming and bathing.
Question:
What is the prevalence of SUDEP in persons with epilepsy?
Results
#1. What is the prevalence of SUDEP in persons with epilepsy?
Each year, more than 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy die from SUDEP. This is the leading cause of death in people with uncontrolled seizures. People with poorly controlled epilepsy are at greatest risk of dying from SUDEP. SUDEP takes more lives annually in the US than sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
