A seizure results from a sudden, temporary burst of uncontrolled electrical activity within the brain. This electrical disturbance can lead to a wide range of changes, affecting a person’s movement, sensations, behavior, or level of awareness. Seizures vary significantly in their presentation, from subtle staring spells to more dramatic episodes involving muscle stiffness and uncontrollable shaking. Knowing how to respond appropriately when someone experiences a seizure can significantly contribute to their safety and well-being.
Call for Immediate Help
While many seizures resolve on their own without lasting harm, certain situations require immediate medical attention. Call 911 if a seizure lasts longer than five minutes, as prolonged seizure activity can be dangerous and is considered a medical emergency known as status epilepticus. Call 911 if a person has never had a seizure before, as this could indicate an underlying medical issue that needs urgent diagnosis.
Call 911 if another seizure occurs immediately after the first, without the person regaining full consciousness between episodes. If the seizure happens in water, such as a bathtub or pool, it is a life-threatening situation due to the significant risk of drowning. Call 911 if the person experiences breathing difficulties during or after the seizure, or if they do not regain normal breathing and awareness within an hour after the seizure stops.
Call 911 for any injury sustained during the seizure, such as a fall or hitting an object. For individuals with known medical conditions, such as a pregnant individual or someone with diabetes, Call 911 regardless of seizure duration. Call 911 if the person having the seizure requests medical help.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Not every seizure necessitates an immediate 911 call. For individuals with a known seizure disorder, like epilepsy, a seizure that is typical for them and resolves quickly without complications may not require a 911 call. In such cases, the person’s established seizure action plan should be followed. Most seizures, especially those lasting less than two minutes, stop on their own and do not cause lasting harm.
If the seizure activity is minor, isolated, and resolves on its own, a non-emergency follow-up with a healthcare provider may be more appropriate. This applies to brief staring spells or minor muscle twitching that do not lead to loss of consciousness or injury. Such instances can indicate a need for a medication adjustment or a general review of their seizure management plan.
A healthcare provider should be consulted if there are new symptoms, changes in seizure frequency or severity, or concerns about potential seizure triggers. This allows for a medical evaluation to ensure the current treatment plan remains effective and to address any evolving aspects of their condition. All first-time seizures, even febrile seizures in children, should be medically evaluated to rule out serious underlying causes.
Providing Support During a Seizure
When witnessing a seizure, staying calm is important to provide assistance. Begin by timing the seizure; this information is valuable for medical professionals. The immediate priority is to ensure the person’s safety by gently moving any nearby objects that could cause injury during the seizure.
Place something soft and flat, such as a folded jacket or cushion, under their head to protect it from impact. Loosen any tight clothing around their neck to aid breathing. Once the seizing movements stop, gently roll the person onto their side; this position helps keep their airway clear and prevents choking on saliva or vomit.
It is important to remember what not to do during a seizure. Never attempt to restrain the person or stop their movements, as this can cause injury to both the individual having the seizure and the helper. Do not place anything in their mouth, including your fingers, as a person cannot swallow their tongue during a seizure, and attempting to insert objects can cause serious injury to their teeth or jaw. Remain with the person until they have fully recovered their awareness and are no longer confused. Once they regain consciousness, calmly explain what happened, offering comfort and reassurance.