How long does a generalized seizure last

The jerking motion slows down as the seizure subsides, and finally stops altogether. As the jerking stops, it is common for the person to let out a deep sigh before resuming normal breathing. Though witnessing a seizure can be frightening, it is a myth that a person having a seizure is in danger of swallowing their tongue , which is not anatomically possible. NEVER put anything in the mouth or forcefully open a tightly clenched jaw while the seizure is happening as this could harm the person.

A seizure typically lasts a few minutes or less, after which the person is likely to remain unconscious for a few minutes more, depending on the intensity of the seizure. People regaining consciousness after a seizure are likely to be sore, confused or frightened and very tired.

Providing assurance and support is the best help an observer can offer. Health Home Conditions and Diseases Epilepsy. Generalized Seizures Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Share on Pinterest Share via Email Print this Page Epilepsy Seizures A generalized seizure occurs when the abnormal electrical activity causing a seizure begins in both halves hemispheres of the brain at the same time.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Types of Seizures. Minus Related Pages. Epilepsy and Seizures. Major Types of Seizures. Seizures are classified into two groups.

Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain. Absence seizures , sometimes called petit mal seizures, can cause rapid blinking or a few seconds of staring into space. Tonic-clonic seizures , also called grand mal seizures, can make a person Cry out. Lose consciousness. Fall to the ground. Have muscle jerks or spasms.

Simple focal seizures affect a small part of the brain. Having a seizure can sometimes lead to circumstances that are dangerous for you or others. You might be at risk of:. Seizures care at Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain.

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Sorry something went wrong with your subscription Please, try again in a couple of minutes Retry. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Schachter SC. Evaluation and management of the first seizure in adults. Accessed Sept. Daroff RB, et al. In: Bradley's Neurology in Clinical Practice. Elsevier; Accessed May 5, The epilepsies and seizures: Hope through research.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Types of seizures. Epilepsy Foundation. Accessed Sep. First seizure adult. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; Seizure first aid. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.