What causes seizure?

Some seizures occur because of epilepsy, while others happen in response to a temporary problem. Triggers can include high fever in a young child, low blood sugar, severe heat illness, alcohol withdrawal, infection affecting the brain, head injury, stroke, or a change in certain medicines. A seizure may involve stiffening and jerking, but it can also cause staring, unusual sensations, brief confusion, or loss of awareness. One seizure does not by itself establish epilepsy.

Clear nearby objects, cushion the person’s head, loosen tight clothing around the neck, and turn them gently onto their side when possible. Note when the episode starts and ends. Do not restrain them, put anything in their mouth, or give food and drink until they are fully alert. Afterward, stay with them and speak calmly. Medical review can help identify a trigger and decide whether tests are needed.

Call emergency services if the seizure is the person’s first, lasts longer than five minutes, repeats without recovery, happens in water, follows a serious injury, or causes breathing difficulty. Seek urgent help for a pregnant person, a person with diabetes, or someone who remains confused, weak, or unusually sleepy after the event.

What might have triggered this episode? Are blood tests, brain imaging, or an electrical brain test appropriate? Could a medicine or withdrawal state be involved? What should we do if it happens again?