The prognosis for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome varies- no two cases are exactly
the same, but many share distinct similarities. Below are classic
characteristics of LGS.

Behavior issues- Behavior issues are quite common in patients with LGS. The behavioral
issues can be caused by the epilepsy itself or from the medications. The frequency of
seizures is also affiliated with the child's behavior. Examples of behavior issues include
acting out, aggression, refusal to cooperate, hitting, biting, crying, jealous behavior, and
insubordination. Behavior problems usually are present during the postictal stage (right
after a seizure occurs).

Cognitive Impairments- These can affect attention, learning, speech, language, memory,
and other functions.

Psychosis- Psychosis affects between 3-8% of patients with refractory epilepsy, such as
LGS, and can last from a few hours to a few weeks. Psychosis can be postictal or interictal
and is usually treated with an anti-psychotic medication.

Depression- Depression can be quite common with people who have epilepsy. Interictal
dysphoric disorder, or IDD,  is a syndrome related to depression and epilepsy. IDD can last
a few hours or a few days and consists of anxiety, depressed moods, and insomnia, and is
more common in the interictal stage.

Aggression- Aggression is thought to occur mostly during the interictal stage (between
seizures). It can also be an adverse effect of medication.

Anxiety- Feelings of anxiety are also common with people who have epilepsy. The
presence of auras and fear has been linked to seizures.

Regression- Regression is reversion to an earlier or less advanced state and is often a
characteristic of LGS.

Incontinence- Incontinence can be a characteristic of children and adults with LGS.
Incontinence usually occurs in the more severe  cases of LGS and is common in patients
who have complex partial seizures.

Side Effects from Medications- Side effects from AED's (anti-epileptic drugs) can include a
short attention span, sleep problems, irritability, depression and hyperactivity. For more
information on the side effects of medications, click here.

Lethargy-  Lethargy is usually a side effect of medication. Some children can be exhausted
very quickly. Many caregivers opt to carry a stroller or wheelchair with them, especially
during long day trips.

Sleep- Sleep patterns are often disturbed in patients with LGS and a lack of sleep can
cause more seizures.

Independence- While children and adults with LGS often yearn for independence, it is rare
for them to live independently or without assistance. Adults with LGS tend to live with a
caregiver or in a group home.
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