When a seizure occurs, understanding how to respond calmly and effectively can make a significant difference for the person experiencing it. Oral bleeding during a seizure is a common occurrence, often manageable with appropriate first aid measures. Being informed about proper actions helps ensure the individual’s safety and well-being.
Ensuring Immediate Safety During a Seizure
The first priority when someone experiences a seizure is to protect them from injury. Begin by easing the person gently to the ground if they are standing or appear to be falling. Clear the immediate area around them of any hard, sharp, or potentially dangerous objects that could cause harm during involuntary movements.
Place something soft and flat, such as a folded jacket or cushion, under their head to provide cushioning and prevent head trauma. Avoid restraining the person or attempting to stop their movements, as this can lead to injuries for both the individual and the rescuer. Time the seizure from its start to its end, as the duration is important information for medical professionals.
Addressing Oral Bleeding During or After a Seizure
If oral bleeding is observed during or after a seizure, the primary goal is to maintain a clear airway and manage the blood safely. Gently turn the person onto their side into the recovery position, with their mouth pointing towards the ground. This position helps prevent choking by allowing any fluids, including blood or saliva, to drain out of the mouth.
Never place anything in the person’s mouth, such as a spoon, tongue depressor, or your fingers. Doing so can cause further injury to their teeth, jaw, or your own hands. Gently wipe away any visible blood from around the mouth without interfering with the person’s airway. After the seizure subsides, continue to keep them on their side until they regain full awareness. If there is significant frothy saliva or blood, clearing it from the mouth and checking the airway remains important.
Recognizing When Emergency Medical Help is Needed
While most seizures are not medical emergencies and resolve on their own, certain circumstances require immediate professional medical attention. Call emergency services if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes. Repeated seizures occurring in quick succession without full recovery in between also warrant an emergency call.
Seek immediate help if the person is injured during the seizure, such as sustaining a head injury or a suspected broken bone. Difficulty breathing or persistent unconsciousness after the seizure has stopped are also indicators for emergency medical assistance. An emergency call is also necessary if it is the person’s first seizure, if they are pregnant, or if they have a pre-existing health condition like diabetes or heart disease.
Understanding the Causes of Oral Bleeding in Seizures
Oral bleeding during a seizure commonly results from involuntary actions that occur during the event. The most frequent cause is biting the tongue, lips, or inner cheeks. This can happen when the jaw clenches or during the rhythmic jerking movements of a tonic-clonic seizure.
These injuries are often not severe, though they can result in bruising, lacerations, or hematomas. The forceful grinding of teeth can also contribute to oral tissue damage and bleeding. Although it looks alarming, it is physically impossible for a person to swallow their tongue during a seizure.