Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP): prevention

Written and reviewed by Dr Ibrahim Imam, Consultant Neurologist. Last reviewed .

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP): prevention. Sleep supine, Use seizure alarms. Fully referenced neurology checklist.

Improve night-time conditions

  • Sleep supine
  • Use seizure alarms
  • Use anti-suffocation pillows
  • Improve night-time supervision and precautions
  • Use nocturnal checking/listening device
  • Share rooms
  • Treat obstructive sleep apnoea

Optimise seizure control

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Consider alternative epilepsy interventions

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Preventative measures

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Proposed preventative measures

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SUDEP discussion points with patient

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References

  1. Nashef L, So EL, Ryvlin P, Tomson T. Unifying the definitions of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. Epilepsia 2012; 53:227-233.
  2. Devinsky O, Hesdorffer DC, Thurman DJ, Lhatoo S, Richerson G. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy: epidemiology, mechanisms, and prevention. Lancet Neurol 2016; 15:1075-1088. 
  3. So EL, Bainbridge J, Buchhalter JR, et al. Report of the American Epilepsy Society and the Epilepsy Foundation Joint Task Force on sudden unexplained death in epilepsy. Epilepsia 2009; 50:917-922.
  4. Hesdorffer DC, Tomson T, Benn E, et al. Combined analysis of risk factors for SUDEP. Epilepsia 2011; 52:1150-1159.
  5. Tomson T, Nashef L, Ryvlin P. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy: current knowledge and future directions. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7:1021-1031.
  6. And 4 more. Subscribe to see the full list

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