Written By THT Editorial Team
Reviewed by Dr. Prakash Paudel, Consultant Neurosurgeon – Spine Surgery, MBBS(IOM), FCPS (Pakistan) CFSS (Canada)
Stay Calm: It’s important to remain calm and try to stay composed. Keep in mind that most seizures are brief and will end on their own.
Ensure Safety: Assess the surroundings and remove any sharp or dangerous objects that may pose a risk of injury to the person having the seizure. Clear the area of furniture or other obstacles to create a safe space.
Protect the Person: Cushion their head with a soft object, such as a folded towel or clothing, to prevent them from hitting their head on the floor or any hard surface. Do not restrain the person or try to hold them down.
Time the Seizure: Note the start time of the seizure. If it lasts longer than five minutes or if the person is injured, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately.
Do Not Put Anything in the Mouth: Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to put anything in the person’s mouth during a seizure. Doing so can be dangerous and may cause harm.
Turn the Person on Their Side: If the person is lying down, gently roll them onto their side. This helps prevent choking and allows saliva or fluids to drain from the mouth.
Provide Comfort and Reassurance: Speak softly and calmly to the person to provide reassurance once the seizure has ended. Let them know that they had a seizure and that they are safe.
Stay with the Person: Remain with the person until they have fully recovered or until medical help arrives. Offer support and monitor their condition.
Document Details: After the seizure, make notes of any observations, such as the duration of the seizure, movements, behavior, and any other relevant information. This can be helpful for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating the person.
Seek Medical Evaluation: If it is the person’s first seizure, the seizure lasts longer than usual, or there are any concerns about their health, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.