Seizures are temporary episodes of uncontrolled, abnormal electrical activity in the brain that affect physical and mental function. A common misconception is that individuals can swallow their tongue during a seizure. This article clarifies why this is not possible, outlines actual risks associated with seizures, along with practical first aid steps.
Why Swallowing Your Tongue Is Impossible
The human tongue is a muscular organ firmly anchored to the floor of the mouth by the lingual frenulum. This band of tissue extends from the underside of the tongue to the bottom of the oral cavity, preventing it from being “swallowed” or sliding down the throat.
While a person having a seizure may lose muscle control, including the muscles of the tongue, the tongue remains attached. It cannot detach and be swallowed like food. The myth likely stems from observations that the tongue might relax and fall back towards the throat, potentially obstructing the airway. However, this is an airway obstruction, not a swallowed tongue.
Actual Risks During Seizures
While swallowing the tongue is not a risk, individuals having a seizure face other dangers. A primary concern is injury from falls or hitting nearby objects. During a seizure, a person may lose consciousness and experience uncontrolled movements, leading to bumps, bruises, cuts, broken bones, or head trauma. The environment significantly influences the potential for injury.
Another risk is aspiration, where foreign material like saliva or vomit enters the airway or lungs. During a seizure, loss of airway reflexes increases aspiration likelihood, especially if the person is on their back. This can lead to serious complications, including lung infections. Additionally, people often experience a postictal state after a seizure, characterized by confusion, drowsiness, and disorientation, lasting minutes to hours.
How to Help Someone Having a Seizure
If you witness someone having a seizure, keep them safe and comfortable. The first step is to stay calm and remain with the person. Gently ease them to the ground if standing, and move any hard or sharp objects away to prevent injury. Place something soft, like a jacket or cushion, under their head to protect it.
Once the seizure subsides, gently turn the person onto their side. This position helps keep their airway clear and allows saliva or vomit to drain, reducing aspiration risk. Loosen any tight clothing around their neck. It is important to time the seizure; if it lasts longer than five minutes, or if the person has difficulty breathing, is injured, or has another seizure soon after, call emergency services. Never attempt to restrain them or put anything into their mouth, as this can cause harm. After the seizure, offer reassurance as they recover from the postictal state.