My son sufferred a second attack of Status epilepticus

Status epilepticus (SE) is a life-threatening condition in which the brain is in a state of persistent seizure. Definitions vary, but traditionally it is defined as one continuous unremitting seizure lasting longer than 30 minutes, or recurrent seizures without regaining consciousness between seizures for greater than 30 minutes (or shorter with medical intervention). It is always considered a medical emergency. There is some evidence that 5 minutes is sufficient to damage neurons and that seizures are unlikely to self-terminate by that time. First aid guidelines for seizures state that, as a rule, an ambulance should be called for seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes (if this is the patient's first seizure episode and there were no known precipitating factors, or if SE happens to an epileptic whose seizures were previously absent or well-controlled for a considerable time period, then that step can be taken before that point).The mortality rate of status epilepticus is very high (at least 20%), especially if treatment is not initiated quickly. However, with optimal neurological care and a good prognosis, the patient (even some people who have been diagnosed with epilepsy) in otherwise good health can survive with minimal or no brain damage, and can even avoid future seizures.


This was the second deadly attack he had suffered. Thank god, it happened in a town where medical assistance is within 5 minutes reach. Faris has been on epilepsy medication for more than 5 years, and in the last 3 years he had not suffered any epilepsy attack, that was why his neurologist advised to reduce the dosage and ultimately stop the medication. The phase out dosage schedule took six months without any problem. Hence we thought he is finally out of the woods, if not totally but at least 90% free from epilepsy (minimal attack).

Just when we thought the worst was over, not even three days free from his epilepsy medication, he had the worst epilepsy attack ever. Words can't never describe how afraid we were at the point of losing him, it was the same feeling we had when he was in critical condition after his open heart surgery (VSD closure) at IJN. Alhamdullillah, he survived again. though we might not know how bad the damage had caused to his brain cells in the long run, but we felt very relief that he is able to recognized us and seems to be his usual self.

The scary part now, is to wait until he is 100% stable before we plan our journey back to Kuala Lumpur and review his condition again with his neurologist. Our prayers may Faris will always stay strong and healthy.