A seizure can become life-threatening, especially if it lasts longer than 5 minutes or happens repeatedly within a short period of time. This condition, known as status epilepticus, can lead to permanent neurological damage.
Most seizures are not fatal, but they may affect areas of the brain that control breathing or occur during activities such as swimming or driving, which increases the risk of death. For this reason, it is essential to follow treatment exactly as prescribed by a doctor.
Status epilepticus is considered a medical emergency and must be treated quickly because of the risk of neuron damage and serious complications, including arrhythmias, heart injury, or respiratory failure.