Seizures: What to watch for and what to do

A seizure can be sudden and scary, but knowing a few clear steps makes a big difference. A single seizure doesn’t always mean epilepsy, yet it’s a signal that you or someone you care about needs medical attention and follow-up.

What to do during a seizure

Stay calm and time the event. If the shaking lasts more than five minutes, call emergency services right away. Move nearby objects so the person won’t hit them, and cushion the head with something soft. Do not put anything in their mouth or try to force the jaw open — that can cause damage. If they’re not breathing normally after the seizure stops, start CPR if you’re trained.

If the person is vomiting or has fluid in their mouth, roll them gently onto their side to keep the airway clear. Stay with them until they’re fully alert and oriented. Note what happened — time, movements, whether they were breathing, and any unusual sounds — this short record helps clinicians later.

Managing seizures day-to-day

Track seizures with a simple diary or app: date, time, what happened before, possible triggers, and meds taken. That log is gold for a neurologist. Take anti-seizure medicines exactly as prescribed; missed doses are a common cause of breakthrough seizures. If side effects or costs are a problem, talk to your prescriber before changing anything.

Be realistic about safety. Avoid swimming alone, climb stairs cautiously, and consider supervision while cooking if seizures aren’t fully controlled. Driving rules vary by place — ask your doctor when it’s safe to resume driving.

Know common triggers: missed meds, poor sleep, high alcohol use or sudden withdrawal, illness/fever, and strong flashing lights for some people. Stress and hormonal changes can matter, too. Identifying patterns helps you reduce risk.

Some medicines and supplements can lower the seizure threshold. Always check new prescriptions with your neurologist or pharmacist, especially for drugs like certain antidepressants or pain meds. If you buy meds online, pick licensed pharmacies that require a valid prescription, show clear contact info, and have verified reviews. Don’t use sites that sell prescription drugs without asking for a prescription.

When to get urgent help: a seizure lasting more than five minutes, a second seizure soon after the first, trouble breathing after the event, new injury during the seizure, or the first-ever seizure. Also seek urgent care if the person is pregnant or has diabetes.

Seizures are manageable for many people. Get a proper diagnosis, work with a neurologist, keep a seizure plan available for family and friends, and review medicines regularly. If you want details on specific drugs, interactions, or safe online pharmacies, check the related articles tagged here for deeper, practical guides tailored to common meds and buying tips.