Status epilepticus is the most severe and extreme type of epilepsy, causing stroke or encephalitis. People with epilepsy usually have seizures of similar length and will usually stop. However, seizures in status epilepticus do not stop or have a recovery period.

Status epilepticus causes seizures that cause convulsions and loss of consciousness. If the seizures last too long and are not treated properly and promptly, they will cause clinical damage to the brain.