August/September 2017 www.womanthismonth.com showcase 62 SUDEP is the sudden demise of epilepsy sufferers who are otherwise healthy. Epilepsy is a brain disorder resulting in repeated seizures. It affects males and females of all races, ethnic backgrounds and ages. For reasons that are poorly understood, people with epilepsy have an increased risk of dying suddenly for no discernible reason. Studies suggest that each year approximately one case of SUDEP occurs for every 1,000 people with the condition. For some, this risk can be higher, such as those with more difficult to control seizures. Research also points to abnormal heart and respiratory function due to gene abnormalities as a contributory factor. SUDEP accounts for 10 per cent of all epilepsy-related deaths. The increased risk factors include: • Uncontrolled or poorly controlled epilepsy. • A long history of generalised tonic clonic seizures – those affecting the whole brain. • Taking two or more antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). • Not taking AEDs as recommended. Autopsies of SUDEP victims showed that 50 per cent had blood concentrations either below therapeutic levels or in completely undetectable amounts. • Alcohol abuse. • Being alone during a seizure or having seizures during sleep. Controlling seizures is the most important step to avoid SUDEP. • Keep appointments so your doctor can monitor any changes and adjust your AEDs as necessary. • Take prescribed medications regularly. • Avoid sudden changes to your medication regimen without first speaking with your physician. • Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular and adequate sleep patterns, regular exercise and regular, nutritious meals. • Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. • Family members, friends and caregivers should be informed to call an ambulance if a seizure lasts more than five minutes or repeats without full recovery. Also, they should remain with the person for at least 15-20 minutes after the seizure to monitor complete recovery. Call 17 812-000 or email [email protected] Neurology specialist Dr Piyush Ostwal on Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL AVOIDING EPILEPTIC TRAGEDIES Dr Piyush Ostwal ARG Ghabga The Al Rashid Group held a Ghabga night at Downtown Rotana. Samy, Ivan & Hanan Kunal & Kaizad Terence, Parijat & Jay Ram Kaizad & Behnaz Fatima, Farah, lana & Nusayba
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