Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, characterized by recurrent seizures.

People living with epilepsy have a higher risk of mortality than the general population, due to several factors including sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), status epilepticus, and accidents. The cause and mechanism of SUDEP remain unknown, but studies have suggested that non-natural causes such as accidents, suicides, and homicides contribute to the higher mortality rate of individuals with epilepsy.

This article will explore the connection between epilepsy and non-natural causes of mortality.

: Accidents

Research suggests that individuals with epilepsy are at a higher risk of accidents such as falls, burns, and accidents involving machinery or vehicles.

Seizures can cause loss of consciousness, impaired vision, and muscle control, increasing the likelihood of an accident. According to a study published in the journal Epilepsy Research, falls were identified as the leading cause of non-natural death among people with epilepsy.

The study analyzed data for 1320 individuals with epilepsy and found that falls accounted for 47% of non-natural deaths. Additionally, seizures while swimming or bathing, which can lead to drowning, are also a significant cause of death among people with epilepsy.

: Suicide

The risk of suicide is higher among individuals with epilepsy than the general population.

Depression and anxiety are common among people with epilepsy, and studies suggest that these mental health issues, along with the social stigma associated with epilepsy, increase the risk of suicide. A study published in the journal Epilepsia found that individuals with epilepsy were two to three times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

The study analyzed data for 1827 individuals with epilepsy, and suicide accounted for 14% of non-natural deaths. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to address mental health concerns in individuals with epilepsy and provide appropriate support and treatment for depression and anxiety.

: Homicide

Studies suggest that individuals with epilepsy may be at increased risk of homicide due to several factors, including cognitive impairment, social isolation, and increased risk-taking behaviors.

According to a study published in the journal Seizure, individuals with epilepsy were four times more likely to die by homicide than the general population. The study analyzed data for 232 individuals with epilepsy and found that homicide accounted for 10% of non-natural deaths.

The study emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to address the social and emotional needs of individuals with epilepsy, including improving access to support networks and social programs.

: Conclusion

People with epilepsy face a higher risk of non-natural mortality, including accidents, suicide, and homicide.

These increased risks are associated with multiple factors such as loss of consciousness, cognitive impairment, social isolation, increased risk-taking behaviors, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and education for individuals with epilepsy to reduce the likelihood of non-natural deaths.

Attention should also be given to address the social stigma associated with the disorder and provide appropriate support and treatment for mental health concerns and social isolation.