Published on: 7/9/2025
What are the risks if a seizure lasts too long?
If a seizure lasts too long, it can be dangerous and may lead to brain damage or other health problems.
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Explanation
A seizure that lasts too long can be very serious.
Possible Risks:
Brain Damage: When a seizure goes on for a long time, it can harm the brain. This is because the brain needs oxygen to work well, and a long seizure can stop it from getting enough oxygen.
Other Health Problems: Long seizures can lead to injuries or make it hard for someone to breathe.
Children and Seizures: Seizures in children usually do not last very long. However, if a child's seizure does not stop quickly, it's important to get help.
Treatment Options: There are medicines that can help stop a long seizure. For example, Levetiracetam is a medicine that can be used to treat seizures.
If you see someone having a seizure that doesn't stop, it's important to get medical help right away.
(References)
- Shinnar S, Berg AT, Moshe SL, & Shinnar R. (2001). How long do new-onset seizures in children last?. Annals of neurology, 11357957.
- Appleton RE, Rainford NE, Gamble C, Messahel S, Humphreys A, Hickey H, et al. (2020). Levetiracetam as an alternative to phenytoin for second- .... Health technology assessment (Winchester, England), 33190679.
- Derex L, Rheims S, & Peter-Derex L. (2021). Seizures and epilepsy after intracerebral hemorrhage. Journal of neurology, 33569652.
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