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Status Epilepticus (Prolonged Seizure)
A seizure lasting more than five minutes, or repeated seizures without recovery in between. It is a medical emergency that can harm the brain if not stopped.
Causes & risk factors
- Known epilepsy, especially if medicine is missed
- Brain infection (such as meningitis)
- Stroke or head injury
- Very low blood sugar or sodium
- Alcohol withdrawal or poisoning
Common symptoms
- Continuous or repeated convulsions
- Unconsciousness that does not lift
- Jerking of limbs
- Not returning to normal between seizures
Tests & diagnosis
- Blood sugar
- Electrolytes
- Brain scan (CT / MRI)
- EEG
- Blood count
Treatment & management
- Call your local emergency number immediately
- Protect the person from injury and do not put anything in the mouth
- Turn them on their side once jerking stops
- Emergency medicines to stop the seizure
- Finding and treating the underlying cause
When to see a doctor urgently
- Call your local emergency number now for a seizure lasting more than five minutes or repeated seizures
- Cushion the head and clear nearby objects during a seizure
- Note how long the seizure lasts to tell the medical team
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about status epilepticus (prolonged seizure). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Should I hold the person down or open their mouth?
No — never restrain them or put anything in the mouth. Protect their head and turn them on their side after.
When is a seizure an emergency?
If it lasts over five minutes, repeats without recovery, or is a first-ever seizure — call emergency services.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.