Diseases
status epilepticus
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
A seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes, or having more than 1 seizure within a 5 minutes period, without returning to a normal level of consciousness between episodes is called status epilepticus. This is a medical emergency that may lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Symptoms
- temporary confusion
- a staring spell
- uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
- stiff muscles
- loss of consciousness or awareness
Causes
- genetic influence.
- head trauma.
- brain abnormalities.
Risk factors
- family history.
- age
- stroke and other vascular diseases
Diagnosis
- blood tests
- a neurological exam.
- computerized tomography (ct) scan.
- electroencephalogram (eeg).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is status epilepticus?
A seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes, or having more than 1 seizure within a 5 minutes period, without returning to a normal level of consciousness between episodes is called status epilepticus. This is a medical emergency that may lead to permanent brain damage or death.
What are the symptoms of status epilepticus?
temporary confusion, a staring spell, uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs, stiff muscles, loss of consciousness or awareness
What causes status epilepticus?
genetic influence.; head trauma.; brain abnormalities.
Which medicines are used for status epilepticus?
lorazepam, midazolam, phenobarbitone, phenytoin
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