When Seizures are an Emergency – Patient Age

Seizures in the very young and the very old may become emergencies.

Infants and toddlers experiencing fever-caused, or febrile, seizures (generally benign) should be taken to the emergency room immediately, especially if the seizure was prolonged or was the child’s first seizure.

When an elderly person falls due to a convulsive seizure, however brief, seek medical attention. There is the potential for broken bones or other injuries. Stay with the person until they are conscious and without confusion.

When Seizures are an Emergency - Additional Health Issues

There are several health issues that turn the most general seizures into emergencies:

• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Accidental injury
• Continuing confusion

Seizures during any of these scenarios carry substantial health risks, ranging from pregnancy complications to brain damage, possibly even death.

Pregnancy

Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia (high blood pressure) are potential causes for seizures in pregnant women. Pre-eclampsia, eclampsia and falls during a seizure require prompt medical attention. Because falls risk compromising the pregnancy, women should be examined immediately.

Diabetes

Seizures may signal impending diabetic shock. If a person suffering from diabetes has a seizure, he or she should seek an emergency evaluation.

Accidental Injury

A seizure may be result of brain damage or loss of oxygen. A person who has had a seizure due to an injury should seek an immediate medical evaluation.

Continuing Confusion

Status epilepticus can be present as partial seizures or convulsive seizures. A person who experiences long periods of confusion and who lacks the ability to interact with other people may be suffering from status epilepticus. In some cases, immediate home treatment may be the best response, or emergency evaluation in a hospital.