Safety and Seizures

Calling the Rescue Squad

Most seizures due to epilepsy are not medical emergencies. They end naturally after a minute or two. There is usually no need to call for emergency help, unless, of course, the physician has advised it.

However, an ambulance should be called if:

• It's the first seizure a person has ever had
  
• Normal breathing does not start again after the shaking stops
  
• There are injuries or the seizure happened in water
  
• Other medical conditions, like diabetes, pregnancy or heart disease are involved
  
• The seizure is prolonged (goes on for more than five minutes without any sign of stopping)
  
• Another seizure starts soon after the first one
  
• You are concerned that something else may be wrong

Disclaimer

This information is based on common experience. It does not reflect the level of risk or need for safety measures of any individual. People vary in their need for safety measures and readers with seizures are warned not to base lifestyle changes on this material without first consulting a physician.