Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services if:
A seizure lasts five minutes or longer
Another seizure begins before the person recovers
Breathing remains difficult after the movements stop
The seizure occurs in water
A serious injury happens
It is the person’s first known seizure
The person is pregnant or has diabetes and urgent help is needed
The seizure is clearly different from the person’s action plan
And for anyone, someone who:
has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if seizures become more frequent, recovery takes longer, new features appear, or side effects affect daily life.
A new rash after starting an anti-seizure medicine needs prompt assessment, especially with fever, facial swelling, mouth sores, or feeling very unwell.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Continue routine follow-up when seizures are stable.