Seizures, Convulsions

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HealthWiki > New Where There Is No Doctor > First Aid > Seizures, Convulsions

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In this chapter:

 

In this chapter:

Seizures are sudden, usually brief, periods of change in consciousness or mental state. Someone having a seizure may lose consciousness or have convulsions (jerking movements). Or they may have few or no physical signs and just be “absent.”

Seizures can be caused by high fever, meningitis, dehydration, a head injury, malaria, or poisoning, among other reasons. If none of these seem likely, a single seizure may not be a reason for concern (although it can be very frightening to watch).

Seizures that repeat over a long period of time are often from epilepsy, a chronic condition that can be controlled with medicines. See a health worker.

Treatment

During a seizure, clear the space around the person so she is not injured. Turn her on her side so she does not choke if she vomits. Do not hold a seizing person down or put anything in her mouth or between her teeth. Get medical help.

If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, put liquid diazepam in the anus using a syringe without a needle. Do not give more than the recommended dose and do not give more than 2 doses.

For seizure from dehydration: after the seizure is over, give plenty of fluids, like water and Rehydration Drink.

For seizure from meningitis: when the seizure is over, take the person to the hospital right away. She will need a combination of specific antibiotics and other emergency medical help.

For seizure from malaria: treat the malaria as soon as possible with the medicines used in your region, usually ACT (artemisinin-based combination therapy). Seizures and convulsions can be a sign of severe malaria, which can cause death if not treated quickly.

After a seizure, the person may be confused or tired.
Comfort her.

This page was updated:03 Feb 2026