Seizure management: practical steps to stay safe

A seizure can last seconds or turn dangerous fast. Knowing simple, concrete steps helps you protect yourself or someone else right away and reduce future risks. This page gives straightforward first-aid actions, daily habits that lower seizure chances, and clear signs for urgent care.

Immediate actions during a seizure

Time the seizure with a clock or phone. If it’s under 5 minutes, stay calm and follow basic first aid. Move sharp objects and hard furniture out of the way. Cushion the person’s head with a jacket or pillow. Turn them onto their side to keep the airway clear and let fluids drain. Don’t hold them down, don’t force anything into their mouth, and don’t try to give food or drink until they’re fully alert.

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, if seizures happen back-to-back without recovery, if it’s the person’s first seizure, if they’re injured or pregnant, or if breathing doesn’t return to normal. If someone has a prescribed rescue medication (like buccal midazolam or nasal benzodiazepine), use it according to their care plan and only if you are trained to do so.

Long-term management and prevention

Take antiepileptic drugs exactly as prescribed. Missing doses is a common cause of breakthrough seizures. Use a pill organizer, phone alarms, or a daily routine to keep on track. If side effects bother you, talk to your prescriber—there are several medication options such as levetiracetam, lamotrigine, carbamazepine, and others; each works differently and carries different risks.

Keep a seizure diary. Note triggers, sleep patterns, missed doses, alcohol use, menstrual cycle changes, and stress. This helps your clinician adjust treatment and may reveal patterns you can avoid. Wear a medical ID or carry a card that lists your diagnosis, medications, and emergency contact—first responders rely on that info.

Change lifestyle factors that raise seizure risk: prioritize regular sleep, limit heavy alcohol, avoid recreational drugs, and manage stress. For some people with photosensitive seizures, use screen filters, sit farther from screens, and avoid flashing lights. Check interactions—some over-the-counter meds and herbal supplements can interfere with seizure drugs.

Make home safety simple: shower instead of bathe alone, use a microwave or cordless kettle, pad sharp furniture for children, and supervise swimming. Work with your doctor on driving rules and workplace safety—legal requirements vary by place and depend on seizure control.

Ask your clinician for a written seizure action plan. Include when to give rescue meds, when to call 911, and who to contact. Regular follow-ups, medication reviews, and discussion of treatment options (including surgery or devices) matter if seizures aren’t controlled.

If you or someone you care for has seizures, small practical steps make a big difference. Stick to meds, reduce triggers, carry ID, and get a clear action plan—those moves cut risk and give you more control over life day-to-day.