About this symptom
A seizure in an adult may involve shaking, unusual movements, a brief loss of awareness or an episode of unresponsiveness. Some epileptic seizures do not involve obvious convulsions, while an ordinary leg cramp during sleep is not the same as an epileptic seizure.
Clinical features
The event’s duration, a witness description, symptoms before and after, injury, medicines and possible triggers are valuable. A first suspected epileptic seizure needs prompt clinical assessment. Witness notes can help when the patient cannot remember the event.
Important differences and warning signs
Based on history and examination, a clinician may recommend EEG, imaging or other selected tests. No single test replaces the clinical assessment. Until the cause is clarified, discuss safety around driving, swimming alone and working at heights.
Assessment and individual care
If someone is having a convulsive seizure, clear hazards, protect the head, time the episode and position the person on their side once the convulsions stop if breathing normally. Never put an object in the mouth or restrain movements forcibly. Ongoing treatment depends on the underlying cause and assessment.
Related information: Hand tremor; Muscle weakness.
Signs and symptoms
- An episode of involuntary shaking, sometimes with altered or lost awareness.
- Brief staring or unresponsive episodes, or confusion after an event.
- The duration, breathing, injuries and witness observations are particularly useful.
Diagnosis and tests
A first suspected epileptic seizure requires prompt medical assessment. EEG and other tests are selected according to the event’s characteristics and examination findings.
Care and treatment approaches
Do not begin or discontinue anti-seizure medicines without professional guidance. Discuss precautions for driving, water activities and work at heights.
When to seek urgent care
If convulsions last 5 minutes or more, recur without recovery, cause serious injury or involve breathing difficulty, call 103 immediately. Do not put anything in the mouth or hold the person down.
Frequently asked questions
Does one seizure always mean epilepsy?
No. The diagnosis depends on the type of event, possible causes and likelihood of recurrence.
Should I put a spoon in someone’s mouth?
No. This is dangerous. Remove nearby hazards, protect the head and time the seizure instead.
When should emergency services be called?
Call for a seizure lasting at least 5 minutes, repeated seizures without recovery, significant injury or breathing difficulty.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
