Seizure Types

Dravet Syndrome is characterised by prolonged, recurrent seizures. Seizures usually start in the first year of life. As the condition progresses, other seizure types can occur.

Seizures are classified into three major types depending on the part of the brain they affect:

Focal onset seizures (previously called partial seizures) start on one side of the brain
Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain simultaneously
Unknown onset seizures is a term used if the location in the brain where the seizure starts is not known

In addition, seizures may be classified based on their cause (e.g. febrile seizures or seizures caused by high temperature) and/or their symptoms (e.g. myoclonic seizures, clonic seizures, tonic seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, absence seizures, atonic seizures, focal impaired-awareness seizures).

Follow the links below to find detailed information about each type of seizure in the context of Dravet Syndrome.

Seizure Diary

Many families report that keeping a seizure diary, or tracking seizures, is very useful. Not only is it helpful for families to keep an eye on any seizure patterns, it can prove incredibly helpful for your medical team to see a possible correlation between seizures and medications. A simple diary can be filled in by hand, noting things such as seizures, medications, child’s general health and well-being, or there are a number of Apps or websites that can be found online.

Talking about SUDEP

SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) can be a difficult subject to discuss. Here we offer some guidance on how to start a conversation with your medical team on managing the risks of SUDEP.

Initial Seizures

A description of seizures most likely to occur during the first year of life; these seizures are the first signs of Dravet Syndrome.

Other Seizures

A description of seizures most likely to occur during 1-4 years of age.

Changes to Seizure Patterns

A description of how seizures may change as children with Dravet Syndrome become older.

Nocturnal (Night-time) Seizures

Tips on how to help manage nocturnal seizures.