A seizure is a temporary disruption of brain activity caused by abnormal electrical signals in the brain. These events can manifest in various ways, from brief staring spells to full-body convulsions with loss of consciousness. While many seizures resolve on their own, understanding when to seek immediate emergency medical attention by calling 911 is important for the safety of the individual experiencing the seizure.
Immediate Emergency Call Situations
Call 911 immediately in these situations:
If a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, call 911. This can indicate status epilepticus, a serious condition that may lead to permanent brain damage or death if not treated quickly.
Also call if one seizure occurs immediately after another without the person regaining full consciousness.
Call 911 for difficulty breathing or signs of choking during or after a seizure. While breathing may become shallow during a tonic-clonic seizure, normal breathing usually resumes. If breathing remains difficult or the person appears to be choking on saliva or vomit, immediate medical attention is needed.
A seizure in water (e.g., bathtub, pool) is an emergency due to the high risk of drowning. Support the person’s head above water, remove them quickly, and check for breathing. Initiate CPR if necessary before calling 911.
Any injury sustained during a seizure, such as a head injury, broken bones, or severe cuts, also requires an emergency call.
If the person does not regain consciousness or normal alertness within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., within an hour) after the seizure, or experiences persistent confusion, an emergency medical evaluation is needed.
A first-time seizure, regardless of duration or severity, always prompts a 911 call to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate medical assessment.
If the person has a known medical condition like diabetes or pregnancy, an emergency call is advised due to potential complications. For instance, a diabetic seizure from low blood sugar requires immediate attention.
When Emergency Services Are Not Immediately Needed
Calling 911 is often unnecessary if the person has a known epilepsy or seizure disorder and the event is typical for them.
If the seizure lasts less than 5 minutes and the individual recovers quickly without complications or injuries, emergency services may not be required. Most seizures resolve within 1 to 3 minutes.
If no injury occurred and the person is alert and responsive afterward, direct emergency intervention is often not needed. Instead, contact their doctor for follow-up care. This allows their healthcare provider to assess the situation, adjust medication, or investigate changes in seizure patterns.
While waiting for the person to recover, take these actions to ensure their safety and comfort:
- Stay with the person until they are fully alert and aware.
- Time the seizure from start to finish.
- Clear the area around the person of hard or sharp objects.
- After shaking stops, gently roll the person onto their side into the recovery position to keep their airway clear.