Symptom 2: Navigating the Terrain of Status Epilepticus
Life with Dravet Syndrome is like trying to traverse an unpredictable landscape. Just when you think you’ve navigated through one treacherous terrain, you find yourself standing at the foot of another daunting peak. The peak, in this case, refers to Status Epilepticus – a medical term that describes an ongoing state of seizure.
This state is not just a prolonged seizure; it’s a seizure that refuses to retreat, continuing for more than 30 minutes. If you imagine the child’s brain as a city, a status epilepticus event is akin to a relentless storm wreaking havoc non-stop. It’s an alarming symptom of Dravet Syndrome, and understanding it is vital to dealing with the disorder.
With Status Epilepticus, the seizure’s persistence is not just a concern but also a threat to the child’s health. These prolonged seizure episodes can lead to a multitude of complications, including difficulties in breathing and an increased risk of injury due to the uncontrollable movements associated with seizures.
Children with Dravet Syndrome often find themselves in a continuous battle with Status Epilepticus. Every episode feels like a high-stakes game, where the aim is to weather the storm without incurring too much damage. But the unpredictability of this symptom makes it an ever-looming threat in the child’s life.
Status Epilepticus, though, is more than just an extended seizure episode. It’s a stark reminder of the volatility of Dravet Syndrome and the constant vigilance required to manage it. While other children may be navigating the landscape of growing up, those with Dravet Syndrome find themselves having to brave the treacherous terrain of continuous seizures. (2)
