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Warning-sign checks

Focal seizure: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if:

    • A seizure lasts five minutes or longer
    • Another seizure starts before the person recovers
    • Breathing remains difficult after the seizure
    • The person is seriously injured
    • The seizure happens in water
    • It is a first seizure and urgent assessment is needed
    • The person is pregnant, has diabetes, or has another condition increasing immediate risk
    • Recovery is much slower or different from usual

    Follow an existing emergency seizure plan if one is available.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange prompt medical assessment after a first suspected seizure, even if you feel fully recovered.

    A clinician must consider seizures and other possible causes, including fainting or heart rhythm problems.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    If you already have a diagnosis, contact your usual healthcare team for follow-up when:

    • Seizures become more frequent or change from their usual pattern
    • Side effects affect daily life
    • You miss doses or have trouble taking medicine
    • You are planning pregnancy
    • Seizures affect work, school, mood, memory, or safety

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Focal seizure. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.