Getting Emergency Help

 

ambulance

An ambulance is only needed if a person has a life-threatening seizure or problems after a seizure.

  • A seizure lasts 5 minutes or longer.
  • One seizure occurs right after another without the person regaining consciousness or coming to between seizures.
  • Seizures occur closer together more than usual for that person.
  • Breathing becomes difficult or the person appears to be choking.
  • The seizure occurs in water.
  • Injury may have occurred.
  • The person asks for medical help.

Remember, you don’t need to call an ambulance for every seizure. Most seizures end on their own within a few minutes.

Reviewed By:

Epilepsy Foundation Communications

Resources

Epilepsy Centers

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Epilepsy Medication

Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.

Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline

Call our Epilepsy and Seizures 24/7 Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.

Tools & Resources

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