Seizure First Aid
What NOT to do:
- DO NOT hold down
- DO NOT put anything in mouth
Most seizures in people with epilepsy are not medical emergencies. They end after a minute or two without harm and usually do not require a trip to the emergency room.
But sometimes there are good reasons to call for emergency help. A seizure in someone who does not have epilepsy could be a sign of a serious illness.
Other reasons to call an ambulance include:
- A seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes
- No “epilepsy” or “seizure disorder” identification
- Slow recovery, a second seizure, or difficulty breathing afterwards
- Pregnancy or other medical diagnosis
- Any signs of injury or sickness