Seizure-related physical injuries and Quality of Life in patients with epilepsy: A cross-sectional single-center study.

AIM: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that frequently leads to physical injuries during seizures, posing both clinical and psychosocial challenges for affected individuals. This study aimed to investigate the frequency, types, severity, and anatomical distribution of injuries among patients with epilepsy, and to assess their impact on Quality of Life (QoL).

METHODS

In this observational study, 126 adult patients diagnosed with epilepsy at a tertiary epilepsy referral center were prospectively analyzed. Sociodemographic, clinical, and trauma-related data were collected using structured questionnaires. Injury severity was categorized as major (requiring inpatient or surgical care) or minor (outpatient or no admission). The Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire was administered to assess QoL. The relationship between QoL and trauma characteristics was examined to identify factors associated with reduced QoL.

RESULTS

Seizure-related physical injuries (SRPI) occurred in 56 patients (44.4%), most commonly involving the head (78.6%), followed by the shoulder, foot, and hand. Of these, 14% required inpatient or surgical treatment. Sixteen patients (29%) developed chronic sequelae, including persistent pain, deformities, or restricted motion. Patients with SRPI reported significantly lower SF-36 scores across all domains compared to those without injuries, with the largest declines observed in physical functioning, general health, and bodily pain. Within the injured group, patients with sequelae demonstrated markedly lower QoL scores, particularly in Physical Functioning (p = 0.024), Mental Health (p = 0.024), Social Functioning (p = 0.014), and General Health (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Seizure-related physical injuries are common in epilepsy and significantly impair Quality of Life, especially when chronic sequelae develop. Preventive measures, early rehabilitation, and standardized injury management protocols are essential to reduce long-term disability and improve outcomes in this population.