First Aid: Seizures
A seizure results from a sudden rush of abnormal electrical signals in the brain. Symptoms may range from a minor daze to uncontrollable muscle spasms (convulsion). In some cases, the victim may even lose consciousness. A seizure can be caused by a high fever, head injury, drug reaction, or condition such as epilepsy.
1. Protect the Head
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Help the victim to the floor if he or she begins losing muscle control. Turn the person on his or her side to prevent choking. -
Protect the victim's head from injury by placing something soft, such as folded clothes, beneath it, and by moving objects away from the victim.
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DON'T cause injury by restraining the person or by placing anything in his or her mouth.
2. Preserve Dignity
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Clear away bystanders. -
Reassure the victim, who may be confused, drowsy, or hostile when coming out of the seizure.
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Cover the person or provide dry clothes if muscle spasms have caused a loss of bladder control.
3. Check for Injury
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Make sure the victim's mental state has returned to normal. One way to do this is to ask the person his or her name, the year, and your location.
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Look for any injury to the mouth and head.
4. Call 911
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If the seizure lasts longer than
3 minutes -
If a second seizure occurs
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If the victim doesn’t regain consciousness
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If the victim is pregnant
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If the victim has no history of seizures
