A seizure involves a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. This event temporarily affects how brain cells communicate, leading to changes in behavior, movement, feelings, or consciousness. It is a common misconception that one can “snap someone out of a seizure.” Seizures are internal neurological occurrences that run their own course and cannot be stopped by external intervention.
Understanding Seizure Control
Seizures result from a surge of abnormal electrical activity within the brain. Normally, nerve cells, or neurons, generate electrical signals in an organized pattern to control bodily functions, thoughts, and emotions. During a seizure, groups of these neurons fire signals uncontrollably and rapidly, overloading affected brain areas. This disruption scrambles the brain’s normal messaging system, causing the physical and mental manifestations of a seizure.
Attempting to physically stop a seizure by restraining someone or interfering with their movements is not only ineffective but can also cause injury to the person seizing or the intervener. Such actions do not shorten the seizure and can lead to increased confusion or agitation.
Immediate Actions During a Seizure
Providing immediate safety and protection for the individual during a seizure is paramount. The first step involves remaining calm and noting the time the seizure begins. Most seizures conclude on their own within a few minutes, typically lasting less than three minutes.
If the person is experiencing a convulsive seizure and is on the ground, gently ease them onto their side to help maintain a clear airway and prevent choking, especially if they vomit. It is also important to place something soft and flat, like a jacket or pillow, under their head to protect it from injury.
Clear the area around the person of any hard, sharp, or potentially hazardous objects to prevent injuries during uncontrolled movements. Remove eyeglasses if present and loosen any tight clothing around their neck, such as a tie or collar, to aid breathing.
Do not attempt to hold the person down or restrict their movements, as this can lead to fractures or other injuries. Never place anything in their mouth, including your fingers or an object, as this can cause dental damage, jaw injury, or block their airway. A person cannot swallow their tongue during a seizure.
Care Following a Seizure
Once the seizure subsides, the person will enter a recovery period known as the post-ictal phase. During this time, they may experience confusion, drowsiness, memory problems, or difficulty speaking. This phase can last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the individual and the seizure type.
Stay with the person until they are fully awake and alert. Speak calmly and reassuringly, explaining what happened as they regain awareness. Offer to help them to a safe, quiet place to rest and recover.
Call emergency services immediately if:
- The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
- The person has another seizure soon after the first without fully recovering.
- They have trouble breathing or waking up after the seizure.
- They sustain an injury during the event.
- It is the person’s first seizure.
- The seizure occurs in water.
- The person has an underlying health condition, such as diabetes, or is pregnant.