Some seizures are not emergencies. However, long seizures or several seizures in a row without time to recover in between can be dangerous. This pattern is called status epilepticus. It should be stopped as soon as possible.
You should call 911 or emergency services:
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if this is your child’s first seizure
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if a seizure lasts a long time (usually five minutes or more)
As a general rule, you should call 911 if a seizure lasts longer than five minutes. The longer a seizure continues, the more difficult it will be to stop. However, every child is different, and every child’s epilepsy is individual. For example, if your child always has seizures that last 10 minutes, your doctor may tell you to wait longer before calling an ambulance. If you are in a more remote area, make sure you know how long it will take to get your child to a hospital, and calculate accordingly. It is important to have a letter from your doctor on how to manage your child’s epilepsy. Make sure that people who look after your child also know what to do if your child has a seizure.
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if your child has several seizures without time to recover between them
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if your child does not regain consciousness after a seizure
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if your child seems confused or dazed for more than an hour after a seizure
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if you think your child may have been injured during the seizure
You should call your child’s doctor:
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if your child has seizures more often than usual
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if your child has a different type of seizure than normal
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if your child is ill
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if you notice anything else unusual about your child’s seizures
Keep your child’s doctor informed about your child’s seizures at each check-up. You may find it helpful to keep a diary of your observations, including the date and time of the seizure; what your child was doing when the seizure happened; and what the seizure looked like.