Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Status epilepticus

Status epilepticus is a prolonged seizure that can cause brain damage and sometimes death. Head injury, drug overdose or withdrawal, stroke, brain tumor, infection, or seizure disorders are common causes of status epilepticus.

It occurs when:

  • A seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
  • Two or more seizures occur in rapid succession (one right after the other) during a 30-minute period and the person does not fully regain consciousness. (These seizures may look like one long seizure.)

News & Events

View All

Postpartum Rage Is More Common Than You Think

The nine months of waiting are finally over. The baby showers are behind you, mother and mother-law have gone home,