SUDEP FAQs
“People with epilepsy have the right to know that Sudep exists, and they have the right to be responsibly counseled about how to reduce the risk,” ~ Dr. Donner MD, FRCPC
Individuals who experience ongoing seizures face a heightened risk of various complications, making seizure prevention crucial. The most severe outcomes include injuries and the risk of fatality associated with seizures. This section provides candid information about a common cause of death in epilepsy known as "Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy" (SUDEP).
FAQ
What is SUDEP?
For some people living with epilepsy, the risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a major concern.
SUDEP refers to deaths in people with epilepsy, or that has a history of seizures that are not caused by injury, drowning, status epilepticusA, or other known causes.
How Common is SUDEP?
SUDEP is relatively rare. Each year, roughly 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy die from SUDEP.
What Causes SUDEP?
No one knows what causes SUDEP, but many areas are being looked at. SUDEP occurs most often at night or during sleep when the death is not witnessed. Current research into the possible causes of SUDEP focuses on problems with breathing, heart rhythm and brain function that occur with a seizure.
What Can Be Done to Lower The Likelihood of SUDEP?
- Take your seizure medicine as prescribed.
- Get enough sleep.
- Consider supervision or monitoring during sleep hours to identify seizure activity;
- Ask your doctor annually about new information they have learned about SUDEP, and whether your treatment plan includes all possible steps to reduce your risk.
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