012: Status Epilepticus

In this episode, our host, David Clifford, walks through a Status Epilepticus event he experienced.

When a seizure lasts more than five minutes, it becomes a true emergency situation because there is a good chance that the seizure will not end by itself naturally. Additionally, if a person with Epilepsy has multiple seizures without fully regaining consciousness an ambulance should be called. In either of these states, the person has entered Status Epilepticus. (Learn about seizure first aid.)

Status Epilepticus (or SE) is rare. About one percent of people that have convulsive seizures will experience a SE event. However, it is still estimated to have 150K cases occur annually in the US, with 55K associated deaths. SE is the second most frequent neurological emergency with a risk of major morbidity or mortality. SE is only second to an acute stroke.

David’s wife, Svetla Vavova-Clifford, recently wrote an essay regarding what she witnessed during my Status Epilepticus event. You can read it here.

The best way you can reduce your susceptibility to Status Epilepticus is to strive for zero seizures, and if you do seize, to have someone around you that understands the dangers of SE.

Epilepsy Research

We have a new initiative here at Brain Ablaze, we are raising money for Epilepsy Research. 40% of the profits from all the products in our store will be donated directly to Epilepsy Research. Here are some products you might enjoy.

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Enjoy the Show!

Thank you so much for listening. See you next time!

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