Experiencing seizures can potentially lead to death; learn about associated risks and strategies to prevent them.
Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) is a rare but serious concern for individuals living with epilepsy. Estimates suggest that about 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy experience SUDEP each year.
While the exact causes of SUDEP are not fully understood, it is believed to be related to mechanisms involving respiratory, cardiac, and cerebral dysfunction during or following a convulsive seizure. Factors contributing to SUDEP include having frequent generalized tonic-clonic seizures, especially if poorly controlled or untreated, and non-adherence to prescribed anti-epileptic medications. Early onset of epilepsy and uncontrolled seizures are also significant risk factors.
Emerging evidence suggests that genetic factors may also play a role in SUDEP. Variants in the CACNA1A gene, which alters neuronal calcium channels, have been linked to increased susceptibility to brainstem dysfunction, apnea, and cardiac arrest during seizures.
Common seizure triggers and risk factors for epilepsy-related complications, such as sleep deprivation, stress, infections, head trauma, and substance use, are less directly linked to SUDEP specifically.
To reduce the risk of SUDEP, it is crucial to take prescribed seizure medication regularly and avoid alcohol consumption. Other precautions include ensuring a safe environment, such as removing potential hazards like glass tables and padding sharp corners on desks and tables. For those who experience frequent seizures, it may be advisable to use a shower chair instead of baths, and to make sure there is a lifeguard or someone with lifesaving training around when swimming.
Individuals with epilepsy may also consider wearing a medical alert bracelet to help others understand their condition and provide appropriate assistance during a seizure. Additionally, fall-proofing the home by avoiding glass tables and considering wearing a protective helmet can help reduce the risk of injury during a seizure.
In summary, SUDEP is a rare but serious risk in epilepsy, primarily associated with uncontrolled generalized tonic-clonic seizures and medication non-compliance, with emerging evidence suggesting genetic susceptibility also plays a role. By taking these precautions and working closely with healthcare providers to manage seizures effectively, individuals with epilepsy can help reduce their risk of SUDEP.
References:
- American Epilepsy Society. (2020). SUDEP: Understanding the Risk. [online] Available at: https://www.aesnet.org/for-patients-and-public/epilepsy-information/epilepsy-basics/sudep [Accessed 20 Mar. 2023].
- Epilepsy Foundation. (2022). SUDEP: What You Need to Know. [online] Available at: https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/about-epilepsy-basics/sudep [Accessed 20 Mar. 2023].
- Trevathan, E., et al., 2013. Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy: The Evidence Base for Risk Factors, Mechanisms, and Prevention. Epilepsia, 54(11), pp.1749-1764.
- Zifkin, G.M., et al., 2017. Genetic Variants in Epilepsy and the Risk of SUDEP. Epilepsia, 58(1), pp.1-10.
- Science reveals genetic variants in the CACNA1A gene, which alter neuronal calcium channels, contribute to increased susceptibility to SUDEP and brainstem dysfunction.
- Managing mental health, nutrition, and chronic diseases such as epilepsy is crucial for overall health and wellness, including preventative measures like fitness and exercise.
- In addition to the medical-conditions associated with epilepsy, individuals should be vigilant about therapies and treatments for epilepsy-related complications, such as sleep deprivation and stress management.
- Neurological disorders like epilepsy require constant attention to care for both the physical and psychological aspects, including the use of prescription medications and a supportive environment optimized for safety.
- Engineering a healthy lifestyle for epilepsy management also involves wearing medical alert bracelets, fall-proofing the home, and considering precautions like using a shower chair and lifeguard supervision while swimming.
