What steps should I take if someone has a seizure?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

If someone has a seizure, stay calm and take these key steps to keep them safe:

Protect their head by placing something soft underneath it.
Clear the area of hard or sharp objects to prevent injury.
Turn them on their side once shaking stops to keep the airway clear.
Do not put anything in their mouth or restrain their movements.
Time the seizure from the moment it begins.

Call 911 immediately if: the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, it's their first-ever seizure, they don't wake up afterward, another seizure follows, or they're injured, pregnant, or have diabetes.

Seizures can stem from many causes—epilepsy, low blood sugar, medication side effects, infections, or underlying neurological conditions—so identifying the trigger matters. If you or someone you know has experienced a seizure or unusual symptoms, don't wait to get clarity. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand possible causes and confidently plan your next steps toward care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if seizure signs need urgent care Discover likely causes of seizure episodes See if it could be epilepsy Find OTC options for seizure-related symptoms Find a neurologist for seizure concerns Discover home remedies after a seizure Understand if your symptoms need testing

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Explanation

Knowing what to do during a seizure can help prevent injury and ensure the person receives proper care. Here's what to do:

Stay calm and check the time: Most seizures last 1–2 minutes. Protect the person: Gently guide them to the ground if needed. Move sharp or hard objects out of the way. Cushion the head: Place something soft under their head to prevent injury. Turn them on their side: This helps keep the airway clear and prevents choking, especially if they vomit or have fluid in the mouth. Do not restrain them: Let the seizure run its course. Do not put anything in their mouth: Despite common myths, this can cause injury and is not helpful. Stay with them: Offer reassurance as they recover. They may be confused, tired, or disoriented afterward.

Call 911 or seek emergency help if:

The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes. Another seizure begins right after the first. The person is injured, pregnant, or has diabetes. It's their first known seizure.

If you or someone you know is experiencing recurring seizures or unexplained symptoms, try this free AI symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine when to seek medical attention.

Providing a calm and safe environment is the most important thing you can do during a seizure.

(References)

Nicholl JS. (1999). Prehospital management of the seizure patient. Emergency medical services, 10537415.
Rossi KC, Baumgartner AJ, Goldenholz SR, & Goldenholz DM. (2020). Recognizing and refuting the myth of tongue swallowing .... Seizure, 33080482.
DeToledo JC, & Lowe MR. (2001). Seizures, lateral decubitus, aspiration, and shoulder .... Neurology, 11235662.

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