What To Do When Someone Is Having A Seizure

When someone is experiencing a seizure, it's important to remain calm and take immediate action to ensure their safety. Epileptic seizures can vary in intensity and duration, but there are general guidelines you can follow to protect the person and potentially reduce the risk of complications.

Step 1: Keep The Person Safe

Move any nearby objects out of the way to prevent injury. If possible, gently guide the person away from dangerous environments such as stairs, traffic, or sharp objects. Help them lie down in a safe and open space. If they are already on the ground, turn them onto their side to help keep the airway clear and allow saliva or vomit to drain from the mouth. This position can help prevent choking and make breathing easier. Loosen any tight clothing around the neck to help them breathe more freely.

Step 2: Do Not Put Anything In Their Mouth

Contrary to some popular beliefs, you should never place anything — including your fingers, spoons, or rolled-up cloth — into the mouth of someone having a seizure. This can cause serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw dislocation, or even choking. Also, avoid trying to restrain the person's tongue, as this is not necessary and may lead to further harm.

Step 3: Avoid Physical Restraint

Do not try to hold the person down or stop their movements. Trying to restrain someone during a seizure can result in muscle strains, fractures, or joint injuries. Instead, stay nearby and monitor the situation while allowing the seizure to run its course naturally.

Step 4: Observe And Record Symptoms

Keep track of the seizure's duration and note any specific symptoms, such as body movements, eye deviation, or loss of consciousness. Gently call the person's name during and after the episode to assess their level of awareness. This information can be extremely valuable for medical professionals when determining the type of seizure and appropriate treatment.

Step 5: Know When To Seek Medical Help

In most cases, seizures stop on their own within five minutes. However, if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, or if the person has difficulty breathing afterward, appears injured, or has another seizure shortly after the first one, seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Timely treatment can be critical in preventing long-term complications or status epilepticus, a life-threatening condition where seizures do not stop without medical intervention.