Epilepsy First Aid Course

Lesson 2.5

Status Epilepticus

Status epilepticus is a prolonged seizure or repeated seizures without recovery in between.

It is a serious medical emergency because the brain and body are placed under continuous stress.

It may occur when:

  • A seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
  • One seizure follows another
  • The person does not regain consciousness or normal breathing between seizures

This can affect breathing and increase the risk of complications.
In this scenario, you should call 999 immediately

Further Learning:

More detailed guidance on status epilepticus and emergency medication is covered in the Epilepsy Awareness course.

The Voice For Epilepsy charity logo with purple awareness ribbon
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