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Published on: 7/21/2026

What should I do if someone has a seizure with loss of consciousness?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A seizure with loss of consciousness is a medical event that requires quick, calm action to keep the person safe. Follow these key first-aid steps:

  • Clear the area: Move sharp or hard objects away to prevent injury.
  • Turn them on their side: This recovery position helps keep the airway open and allows saliva or vomit to drain, reducing choking risk.
  • Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
  • Stay with them until they are fully awake, alert, and oriented.
  • Time the seizure. Call 911 if it lasts longer than 5 minutes, if another seizure follows, or if the person is injured, pregnant, or has trouble breathing.

Seizures can have many underlying causes—epilepsy, low blood sugar, high fever, medication reactions, or other neurological conditions—and identifying the trigger is critical for preventing future episodes. If you or someone you know has experienced a seizure or unexplained 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 the right care.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Important Next Steps

Learn if seizures need urgent care todayDiscover likely causes of seizure-like episodesSee if loss of consciousness is seriousFind OTC options for seizure-related symptomsFind a doctor for seizure evaluationDiscover home remedies for seizure recoveryUnderstand if your symptoms need a check

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Explanation

When a person has a seizure and loses consciousness, it is important to ensure their safety. Move any objects away that might hurt them. Gently turn them onto their side; this helps keep their airway clear and prevents choking. Make sure their head is cushioned.

Stay with the person until they are fully awake and aware of their surroundings. Try to keep calm and reassure them when they regain consciousness.

Seizures can cause changes in the brain that lead to loss of consciousness. This happens because the brain's normal activity is disrupted. While it may look scary, most seizures are not dangerous and stop on their own.

If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or if the person does not regain consciousness after the seizure, seek emergency medical help. If you're concerned about seizure symptoms or want to better understand what you're experiencing, you can use a free symptom checker to help identify potential causes. Being prepared and knowing these steps can help keep someone safe during a seizure.

(References)

  • Blumenfeld H, & Taylor J. (2003). Why do seizures cause loss of consciousness?. The Neuroscientist : a review journal bringing neurobiology, neurology and psychiatry, 14580115.

  • Cavanna AE, & Monaco F. (2009). Brain mechanisms of altered conscious states during .... Nature reviews. Neurology, 19488084.

  • Blumenfeld H. (2012). Impaired consciousness in epilepsy. The Lancet. Neurology, 22898735.

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