Seizures can be frightening, but knowing what to do can help keep the person safe and comfortable.
Call 911 Immediately if:
– The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
– The person has another seizure within 5 minutes.
– The person is injured during the seizure.
– The person is pregnant or has a history of heart problems.
Steps to Take During a Seizure:
-
Stay Calm
– It’s normal to feel scared, but try to remain composed. Panicking won’t help the person having the seizure. -
Time the Seizure
– Use a clock or your phone to record how long the seizure lasts. This information will be helpful for emergency responders and doctors. -
Protect the Person from Injury
– Gently move any objects that could hurt the person, such as furniture or sharp objects.
– Place something soft, like a blanket or pillow, under the person’s head.
– Do not restrain or hold the person down. -
Turn the Person on Their Side
– Once the seizure ends, turn the person gently onto their side. This helps prevent choking if they vomit or drool. -
Loosen Tight Clothing
– If the person’s clothing is tight, loosen it around their neck and chest to make breathing easier. -
Remain with the Person
– Stay with the person until they are fully awake and aware of their surroundings. Reassure them and let them know what happened.
What NOT to Do During a Seizure:
- Do not put anything in the person’s mouth.
- Do not give them water or any other liquid until they are fully awake.
- Do not try to stop the seizure.
- Do not be afraid to call for help.
2025 Hot Search Title: Seizures: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Assisting During an Episode
FAQs
1. What causes seizures?
– Seizures can be caused by a variety of factors, including epilepsy, head injuries, stroke, and infections.
2. How long do seizures typically last?
– Most seizures last for a few seconds to a few minutes. However, some can last longer.
3. What are the different types of seizures?
– There are many different types of seizures, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common types include:
– Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal)
– Absence seizures (petit mal)
– Focal seizures
4. Can seizures be cured?
– Depending on the underlying cause, some seizures can be cured or controlled with medication.
5. What are the first aid steps for someone having a seizure?
– Call 911 immediately if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or the person has other concerning symptoms.
– Time the seizure and protect the person from injury.
– Once the seizure ends, turn the person on their side and loosen tight clothing.
– Stay with the person until they are fully awake.
6. What should I do if someone I know is diagnosed with epilepsy?
– Learn about epilepsy and how to help your friend or family member.
– Be supportive and understanding.
– Encourage them to take their medication as prescribed and follow their doctor’s instructions.
Tips and Tricks
- If you witness someone having a seizure for the first time, try to remain calm and observe the seizure carefully. This information can be helpful for medical professionals in diagnosing the seizure type.
- If you know someone who has epilepsy, ask them what they want you to do in the event of a seizure.
- Keep a first aid kit on hand in case of an emergency.
Effective Strategies
- Educate yourself. Learn about seizures and how to help someone who is having one.
- Be prepared. Keep a first aid kit on hand and know what to do in case of a seizure.
- Be supportive. Let the person know that you are there for them and that you understand what they are going through.
Useful Tables
Table 1: Types of Seizures
Type of Seizure | Symptoms |
---|---|
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal) | Loss of consciousness, stiffening of the body, jerking movements, loss of bladder or bowel control |
Absence seizures (petit mal) | Brief loss of consciousness, staring, or blinking |
Focal seizures | Seizures that affect only one part of the body, such as a hand or arm |
Table 2: Causes of Seizures
Cause | Percentage of Cases |
---|---|
Epilepsy | 60-70% |
Head injury | 10-20% |
Stroke | 5-10% |
Infections | 5-10% |
Other medical conditions | 5-10% |
Table 3: First Aid Steps for Seizures
Step | Action |
---|---|
1 | Call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or the person has other concerning symptoms. |
2 | Time the seizure. |
3 | Protect the person from injury. |
4 | Once the seizure ends, turn the person on their side and loosen tight clothing. |
5 | Stay with the person until they are fully awake. |
Table 4: Resources for Seizures
Resource | Website |
---|---|
Epilepsy Foundation | https://www.epilepsy.com |
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke | https://www.ninds.nih.gov |
Seizure League of America | https://www.seizureleague.org |