Dravet Syndrome
General information on Dravet syndrome — a rare, severe seizure disorder needing specialist care.
Dravet syndrome is a rare, severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, often triggered initially by fever, and is associated with developmental differences. It needs specialist neurology management. This page is general educational information, not medical advice for your specific situation.
Common Symptoms
- Prolonged seizures starting in the first year of life, often with fever
- Multiple seizure types over time
- Developmental delay, becoming more apparent after the first year
- Increased vulnerability to prolonged seizures from fever or heat
How It's Typically Managed
- A specialist epilepsy diagnosis, including genetic testing
- A carefully chosen anti-seizure medication regimen, only as prescribed — some usual epilepsy medications can worsen Dravet syndrome, so specialist guidance matters
- Fever management and avoiding known seizure triggers
- A seizure action plan, including when a seizure counts as an emergency
This is a general overview of typical care, not a prescription. Only a doctor who has examined you can prescribe specific medication or dosage.
Foods That May Help
- A balanced diet; a specific medical diet (ketogenic) is sometimes used, only under specialist supervision
Foods to Limit or Avoid
- Overheating and known personal seizure triggers, as identified with your specialist
When to See a Doctor
- A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or repeated seizures without recovering in between — seek emergency care immediately
- New or worsening seizures in a child with Dravet syndrome should be discussed promptly with their specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Dravet Syndrome?
Prolonged seizures starting in the first year of life, often with fever; Multiple seizure types over time; Developmental delay, becoming more apparent after the first year; Increased vulnerability to prolonged seizures from fever or heat.
How is Dravet Syndrome managed?
A specialist epilepsy diagnosis, including genetic testing; A carefully chosen anti-seizure medication regimen, only as prescribed — some usual epilepsy medications can worsen Dravet syndrome, so specialist guidance matters; Fever management and avoiding known seizure triggers; A seizure action plan, including when a seizure counts as an emergency.
When should I see a doctor for Dravet Syndrome?
A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or repeated seizures without recovering in between — seek emergency care immediately; New or worsening seizures in a child with Dravet syndrome should be discussed promptly with their specialist.
What foods may help with Dravet Syndrome?
A balanced diet; a specific medical diet (ketogenic) is sometimes used, only under specialist supervision.
What foods should I avoid with Dravet Syndrome?
Overheating and known personal seizure triggers, as identified with your specialist.
This article is AI-generated for general educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and has not been independently verified by a licensed clinician unless stated above under "Medically reviewed by." Always consult a qualified doctor for guidance specific to you — you can book an online consultation on greenhealtheasy in a few minutes.
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