Seizures occur as a result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can be caused by epilepsy, high fever, head injury, or other medical conditions. A seizure can be a discomforting experience to the victim and a frightening experience to the observer(s). However, knowing what to do can make a significant difference. In today’s post, we talk about what to do to help someone experiencing a seizure. Let’s get to it!
Be Calm and Assess the Situation
As simple as this sounds, it is very important. A person having seizures is not a pleasant scene and, understandably, can cause one to panic. However, panicking will not help the person and may, in fact, worsen the situation. It is therefore crucial to stay calm. Assess the environment quickly to determine if the person is in immediate danger, such as near a busy road, sharp objects, or a staircase.
Protect the Person from Injury
If the person is standing, try to gently guide them to the ground to prevent a hard fall and head injury. Move away any nearby objects that could cause injury, such as furniture or sharp items. If possible, place a soft object like a jacket or pillow under their head.If they wear glasses, remove them to prevent damage.
Turn them to One Side
Once the person is on the ground, gently turn them onto their side. This position helps prevent choking by allowing saliva or vomit to drain out of the mouth rather than into the airway.
Time the Seizures
Most seizures last between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. If a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or if the person has multiple seizures without regaining consciousness, eensure to get the person to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. This is because prolonged seizures can be life-threatening and cause brain damage.
Do NOT Put Anything in Their Mouth
It is a popular myth that a person experiencing a seizure can swallow their tongue and putting a spoon or other objects in their mouth would help prevent this. This is not true. Do not try to force their mouth open or put any objects, such as a spoon or fingers, into their mouth. This can as this can lead to broken teeth, choking, or jaw injuries.as this can lead to broken teeth, choking, or jaw injuries.
Do NOT Restrain Their Movements
It might be tempting to hold the person still to prevent them from jerking, but this can do even Seizures cause involuntary muscle contractions, and trying to hold the person down can cause injury. So allow the seizure to run its course while ensuring the person is in a safe position.
Stay Within Them and Offer Comfort
After a seizure, the person may feel confused, disoriented, or exhausted. This phase, called the postictal state, can last for minutes to hours. Some may have trouble speaking or remembering what happened. Speak to them in a calm and soothing voice, letting them know they are safe. Give them time to recover before helping them sit up or stand. Ultimately, if they are still unresponsive after a few minutes, take them to a hospital.
Call for Medical Help If Necessary
Not all seizures require emergency medical attention, but in some cases, immediate help is necessary. Seek immediate medical help if:
- The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- The person has multiple seizures in a row without regaining consciousness.
- They have trouble breathing after the seizure.
- The seizure occurred in water, increasing the risk of drowning.
- The person is pregnant, injured, or has diabetes.
- It’s their first known seizure.
Seizures can happen anywhere and at any time. While witnessing one may be alarming, taking the right actions can ensure the person’s safety. We hope today’s post has equipped you with enough knowledge to make a difference if you ever come into contact with someone having seizures.
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