Emergency

Seizure (Epileptic Fit)

During a seizure, keep the person safe from injury, cushion their head, do not restrain them, time the seizure, and put them in the recovery position afterwards.

When to call 999. Call 999 if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, if one seizure follows another without recovery, if it is the person’s first seizure, if they are injured, have difficulty breathing, or do not regain consciousness afterwards.

Written by Meds Global Health Clinical Team · Clinically reviewed by Dr Muhammad Suffyan, MB BS, Founder & Clinical Director · Last reviewed · How we review

What to do

  1. Stay calm and note the time the seizure starts.
  2. Move away any nearby objects that could cause injury, and cushion the head with something soft.
  3. Do not restrain the person or try to stop their movements.
  4. Loosen anything tight around the neck if you can do so safely.
  5. Once the jerking stops, gently roll them into the recovery position and check their breathing.
  6. Stay with them, reassure them as they come round, and call 999 if any warning sign applies.

Avoid

What not to do

Never put anything in the person’s mouth or try to hold their tongue — this can cause serious injury. Do not restrain them, move them unless they are in danger, or give food or drink until they are fully recovered.

Afterwards and while you wait

The person may be confused, tired or upset afterwards, and will need calm reassurance and privacy. Stay with them until they have fully recovered. If it was their first seizure, they should be seen by a doctor even if they now feel well.

Education and reference only. This is general first-aid information aligned with UK guidance, not a substitute for a hands-on first-aid course or professional emergency care. In a life-threatening emergency, call 999 straight away.

Answers

Seizure (Epileptic Fit): frequently asked questions

Should I put something in their mouth to stop them biting their tongue?

No, never. Putting objects or fingers in the mouth can break teeth, injure you, or block the airway. Any tongue biting happens at the start and cannot be prevented this way.

When must I call 999 for a seizure?

Call 999 if it lasts over 5 minutes, repeats without recovery, is a first seizure, causes injury or breathing problems, or the person does not come round properly afterwards.

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Sources

Where this is drawn from

  • NHS — first aid
  • Resuscitation Council UK
  • St John Ambulance / British Red Cross first-aid guidance

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