Severe
Seizure
Sudden convulsions, jerking, or loss of awareness.
Step-by-step
- 1
Keep them safe — don't restrain
Clear hard or sharp objects away from them. Put something soft (folded jacket) under their head if possible.
- 2
Loosen anything around the neck
Open collars, ties, scarves. Remove glasses.
- 3
Note the start time
Look at a clock. Most seizures stop on their own within 1–2 minutes. Anything longer is an emergency.
- 4
Let it run its course
Don't try to stop the movements. Don't put anything in their mouth. They cannot swallow their tongue.
- 5
When it stops — recovery position
Roll them gently onto their side. Tilt the head back to keep the airway open. Stay with them — they will be confused, drowsy, or sleepy for several minutes. Speak calmly. Don't crowd them.
🛑 Do NOT
- Do NOT put anything in their mouth (including your fingers, a spoon, or a wallet) — myth and dangerous.
- Do NOT hold them down or try to stop the convulsions.
- Do NOT give them food or water until they are fully alert.
- Do NOT leave them alone afterwards — confusion and tiredness can last 30+ minutes.
📞 Call an ambulance if…
- The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- Another seizure starts before they have recovered from the first.
- They are injured during the seizure (especially head or back).
- They have trouble breathing afterwards or remain unconscious.
- It is their first ever seizure.
- It happens to a pregnant person, in water, or to someone with diabetes.
This guide is educational content — not medical advice. Always call emergency services first. Sources: Red Cross, American Heart Association, NHS England.