Specialty Focused Recordings: Seizures and Epilepsy-Mortality In Epilepsy

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Erin and Allison discuss epilepsy-related mortality and the importance of addressing it openly with patients and families. People with epilepsy face roughly three times the risk of death compared with those without epilepsy. Risks include SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy), status epilepticus, drowning, accidents, medication issues, and suicide. SUDEP occurs in about 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy each year; risk is highest with frequent or nocturnal tonic-clonic seizures and treatment-resistant epilepsy. Social barriers, such as medication costs, transportation, and limited access to specialist care, can further affect safety.<br /><br />The speakers emphasize that patients and caregivers want clear information about SUDEP and other risks, paired with practical ways to reduce them. The Preventing Epilepsy Deaths Toolkit offers conversation guides and resources for clinicians and families. They also recommend routine suicide screening, attentive follow-up, and involving mental health professionals when needed. Clinicians should listen, acknowledge patients’ feelings, and respond supportively to positive screens. Safety planning, seizure-monitoring resources, caregiver support, bereavement services, and ongoing conversations as circumstances change are also highlighted.

Keywords

epilepsy mortality

SUDEP

status epilepticus

seizure safety

nocturnal tonic-clonic seizures

treatment-resistant epilepsy

suicide screening

preventing epilepsy deaths toolkit

caregiver support