Post-Cryostasis Epilepticus

"What the hell? Where's Jenkins?"
"He went full galactic mermaid comin' out of cryo. He'll be fine in a day or so."
"Dammit, we're short manned as is."

Post-Cryostasis Epilepticus (PCE) is a rare condition that can develop during the thawing process of persons placed in stasis. It is generally harmless but serious bouts can cause other injuries.

Other Names

"Galactic Mermaid" is a less-than-sensitive term used by many shippers to describe PCE. The term comes from the intense spasms one may suffer that can force the body to arch backwards as far as possible, similarly appearing as a mermaid might outside of water.

---

Development

As a person thaws from cryostasis, it is not unusual for symptoms such as nausea and dizziness to appear and most people will stay disorientated for around an hour. However, in extreme cases, a person may be unable to even sit themselves upright, and, in very rare situations, may start seizing. Seizures are usually short lived and considered harmless, but those that last longer than five minutes become dangerous. After this point, medical professionals will diagnose PCE and the person will need to undergo a more thorough medical evaluation before being cleared for duty.

Symptoms

The symptoms for PCE are the same as with regular seizures, but can be more severe. The list below are some symptoms that have been observed and recorded post-seizure.

• feinting
• fatigue
• amnesia
• depression
• anxiety
• migraines
• temporary paralysis

Treatment

Treatment during the seizure is limited and options for treating seizures in general are not always effective. The best that medical personnel can offer is a thorough medical examination following the seizure and prescribed crew rest.

---

SUFFERED PCE? YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO FINANCIAL COMPENSATION!

"I understand how serious it is and all, but you have to admit - Galactic Mermaid is the perfect term to describe it." -the Rogue

Dangers

Luckily, the vast majority of PCE cases result in minimal injury to the patient. However in extreme cases, the extended seizure can result in broken bones or even bleeding in the brain. There is also the unknown effects which the seizure has on the brain, with some patients suffering seizures again up to six months past the initial seizure. As of current research, no pre-existing conditions seem to increase the chances of PCE making cases extremely unpredictable.