Seizure First Aid

Seizure first aid is different for every type of seizure. Did you know there are over 40 types of seizures? What would you do if someone had a seizure? Here are some first aid instructions for someone who has a seizure

 

For first time seizures and those who have generalized seizures (formerly called grand mals)

Be calm

Remove any tight clothing and objects which can cause harm to the person having the seizure

Always time the seizure!

If someone falls during a seizure, turn the person on their side and support the head. You can use a pillow or jacket to support the head. Head injuries can occur during a seizure. 

NEVER stick an object in a person's mouth during a seizure or restrain them! Ever! You can cause someone to choke or further damage to the mouth or body during a seizure.

Call 911 if...

The person never had a seizure before

The seizures last longer than five minutes or the person has status epilepticus

The person is pregnant

The person has diabetes

The person is in water

The person doesn't regain consciousness during the seizure

The person is injured

 

For someone who has absence seizures

Remove objects that might harm a person during the absence seizure.  

Reorient the person with their surroundings. It is confusing and the amount of time in an absence seizure can last anywhere from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. 

Reassure the person that things will be fine after the seizure. Do not shake them! It only makes it worse.

Absence seizures can be quite embarrassing; you can help make it easier by being there post seizure. 

 

 

For more information on the other different types of seizures and how you can be supportive, please visit www.thedaisygarled.org.uk  or go to www.theepilepsynetwork.com