Management of Epilepsy Comorbidities.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Many comorbid conditions occur among people with epilepsy. These comorbid conditions can be divided into physical, psychiatric, and cognitive groups. This article examines the common comorbid conditions associated with epilepsy and identifies management strategies to mitigate these health concerns.

RECENT FINDINGS

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is an important and common cause of epilepsy-related mortality, with the most important identified predictor being recurrent seizures. Psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities of epilepsy are also particularly common. Individuals with epilepsy need to be screened and treated for psychiatric comorbidities.

SUMMARY

This article explains common comorbid conditions such as depression, anxiety, and memory difficulties; outlines treatment approaches; and discusses functional restrictions such as driving. SUDEP and the risk factors that contribute to it are also discussed.