Seizure First Aid: What to Do When Someone Has a Seizure
Seizures can be frightening to witness, but knowing how to respond can make a big difference in ensuring the person’s safety. Here’s a guide on what to do when someone is having a seizure:
Stay Calm: While it’s natural to feel scared or anxious, staying calm can help you respond effectively.
Keep the Person Safe: Clear the area around the person of any sharp or dangerous objects to prevent injury. Place something soft under their head if they are lying down.
Time the Seizure: Note the time when the seizure starts. If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, or if the person has difficulty breathing or another seizure starts soon after the first one ends, call for emergency medical help.
Do Not Restrain: Do not hold the person down or try to stop their movements. It’s important to let the seizure run its course.
Protect the Head: If the person is convulsing, gently turn them onto one side to help keep their airway clear and prevent choking. Do not try to force their mouth open or put anything in their mouth.
Stay with the Person: Stay with the person until the seizure ends and they are fully awake and alert. Reassure them and offer help as needed.
Check for Medical Identification: Check if the person is wearing a medical bracelet or necklace that indicates they have epilepsy or another medical condition.
After the Seizure: Once the seizure ends, help the person reorient themselves. They may be confused or disoriented after a seizure. Offer to stay with them until they are feeling better or have someone else stay with them if you need to leave.
Seek Medical Attention: If the person is injured during the seizure, if it is their first seizure, if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, or if they have difficulty breathing or another seizure starts soon after the first one ends, call for emergency medical help.
It’s important to remember that most seizures are not medical emergencies and do not require emergency medical attention. However, if you are unsure or if the person has a known history of seizures, it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek medical help.