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Warning-sign checks

Sleep epilepsy: 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
    • It is the person’s first known seizure
    • Breathing remains difficult after the movements stop
    • The seizure happens in water
    • There is a serious injury
    • The person is pregnant or has a serious underlying illness

    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

    Seek prompt medical advice after a breakthrough seizure if it is unusual for you, especially after a long seizure-free period.

    A medication review may be needed, but do not change the dose yourself.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you or someone close to you notices repeated, unexplained night-time movements, injuries, confusion, or other events that follow a similar pattern.

    Also seek follow-up if known seizures are becoming more frequent, changing in appearance, disturbing sleep, or causing medicine side effects.

The article also says

During a convulsive seizure, move dangerous objects away and cushion the head.

Do not restrain the person or put anything in their mouth.

Time the seizure.

When the movements stop, place them on their side if you can do so safely, and stay with them until they recover.

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