A seizure represents a sudden, brief disruption of brain activity, stemming from abnormal electrical signals within the brain. This surge can manifest in various ways, influencing movement, sensation, behavior, or awareness. The duration of these events can vary widely. Understanding typical seizure length and when a seizure lasting too long signals a need for immediate medical attention is important.
Understanding Typical Seizure Duration
Most seizures are brief, often lasting less than two minutes. Generalized tonic-clonic seizures, which involve stiffness and rhythmic jerking movements, typically last between one and three minutes. These seizures usually resolve on their own within five minutes.
Focal seizures, originating in one brain part, are also short. Focal aware seizures, where a person remains conscious, commonly last less than two minutes. Focal impaired awareness seizures, involving a change in consciousness, generally span between one and two minutes. Even absence seizures, characterized by brief staring spells, are quite short, rarely exceeding 30 seconds.
When a Seizure Duration Becomes a Concern
A seizure lasting longer than typical indicates a medical emergency. When a seizure extends beyond five minutes, it is formally recognized as status epilepticus. This condition occurs either because a seizure fails to stop on its own or because multiple seizures happen in quick succession without the person regaining full consciousness between them.
This condition requires prompt intervention. Prolonged seizure activity can lead to brain damage. While the risk of brain damage begins to accrue after approximately 30 minutes of continuous seizure activity, immediate treatment is always recommended for seizures lasting five minutes or more.
Factors Affecting Seizure Duration
Several factors can influence how long a seizure lasts. The specific seizure type is a key factor, as different types have varying durations. For instance, generalized tonic-clonic seizures often last longer than brief absence seizures. The underlying cause of the seizure also plays a role.
Seizures can be provoked by various conditions such as fever, head trauma, or metabolic imbalances. If a person is taking anti-seizure medication, its effectiveness and adherence to the prescribed regimen can impact seizure duration and frequency. Individual physiological differences also contribute to the variability in seizure length.
Providing Support During a Seizure
Knowing how to assist someone during a seizure is important. The immediate priority is to keep the person safe and prevent injury. This involves moving any potentially dangerous objects away from them and placing something soft, such as a jacket or cushion, under their head. Loosening any tight clothing around their neck can help with breathing.
It is important to turn the person gently onto their side if they are not awake, ensuring their mouth is pointing towards the ground to keep their airway clear. Never attempt to put anything into their mouth or restrain their movements. Timing the seizure is also important; if it lasts longer than five minutes, or if they have another seizure immediately, or experience difficulty breathing, emergency medical help should be called.