What should you know about having a seizure for the first time?

A seizure is a burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Someone may stiffen, jerk, stare, lose awareness, fall, or behave unusually; not every seizure looks like a dramatic convulsion. Possible triggers include low blood glucose, alcohol withdrawal, infection such as meningitis, head injury, medicines, or another neurological condition. One event does not by itself establish epilepsy.

Time the event and clear nearby hard or sharp objects. Cushion the head, loosen tight clothing, and turn the person on their side when the movements stop or if possible without force. Do not restrain them, put anything in their mouth, or offer food and drink until they are fully alert. Note what happened before, during, and after the event; a witness account or video can help the clinician.

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts several minutes, repeats without recovery, causes a serious injury, happens in water, or the person has breathing difficulty. Seek immediate help for a first seizure, pregnancy, diabetes, fever with a stiff neck, severe headache, confusion, or suspected poisoning or withdrawal. Do not drive yourself for assessment if you remain confused or unwell.

Ask what tests may identify the trigger, whether medicines or alcohol could be involved, when driving or operating machinery is safe, and which symptoms should prompt another emergency call.