Published on: 7/9/2025
What should I do if someone has a grand mal seizure?
If someone has a grand mal seizure, keep them safe, avoid restraining them, protect their head, and seek emergency medical help if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or if it's their first seizure.
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Explanation
Grand mal seizures, also called generalized tonic-clonic seizures, involve loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. Here’s what to do:
Stay calm: Keep track of the time the seizure starts. Protect the person: Move objects away to prevent injury. Cushion their head with something soft. Do not restrain: Avoid holding the person down or putting anything in their mouth. Position safely: Once the seizure stops, help them lie on their side (recovery position) to keep the airway clear.
Call for emergency help if: The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes. Another seizure follows immediately. The person has difficulty breathing after the seizure. The person is injured, pregnant, or has other health concerns. It’s their first seizure.
Most seizures stop on their own, but emergency care may be needed to prevent complications.
(References)
- Kodankandath TV, Theodore D, & Samanta D. (2025). Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure. Unknown Journal, 32119383.
- Korinthenberg R. (1992). [Grand mal epilepsy in childhood]. Monatsschrift Kinderheilkunde : Organ der Deutschen Gesellschaft fur Kinderheilkunde, 1435812.
- Simonson HC, & Pelberg AL. (1993). Unnecessary emergency transport and care of grand mal .... American journal of medical quality : the official journal of the American College of Medical Quality, 8513251.
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