Seizure First Aid: How to Help Someone During a Seizure

If you witness someone having a seizure, it's essential to know how to help keep them safe. While most seizures aren't life-threatening, taking simple steps can prevent injury and provide comfort to the person experiencing the seizure. In this article, we'll discuss the different types of seizures, what you can do to help, and when to call for emergency assistance.

Types of Seizures

The most well-known type of seizure is the generalized tonic-clonic seizure, also called a grand mal seizure. These seizures typically follow a pattern:

1. The person becomes unresponsive and may collapse.

2. Their muscles stiffen (tonic phase), lasting a few seconds.

3. Jerking movements occur (clonic phase), which can last several minutes.

4. The person becomes alert but may be confused or tired.

Focal seizures, on the other hand, are less intense and usually last only a minute or two. The person may experience stiffness or rhythmic movements in one part of their body, or they may appear to "zone out" or stare blankly.

How to Help During a Seizure

When helping someone during a seizure, the main goal is to ensure their safety. Here's what you can do:

For a Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure:

• Give the person space and keep others back.

• Remove any hard or sharp objects nearby.

• Cushion their head with something soft.

• Loosen tight clothing around their neck, if possible.

• Do not try to restrain them or put anything in their mouth.

• If their head isn't moving, gently turn it to one side.

• Time the length of the seizure.

• After the jerking stops, place them on their side to keep their airway clear.

For Milder Seizures:

• Guide the person away from hazards like traffic, stairs, or water.

• Stay with them until they are fully aware of their surroundings.

• Speak calmly and reassure them if they are confused or frightened.

• Do not give them anything to eat or drink until they have completely recovered.

Rescue Medications and Treatments

In some cases, rescue medications can be used to help stop a seizure quickly. These medications, usually benzodiazepines, can be administered nasally, orally, sublingually, buccally, or rectally. Common rescue medications include:

• Diazepam (Valtoco, Diastat)

• Lorazepam

• Midazolam (Nayzilam)

It's important to note that rescue medications should only be used in emergency situations and do not replace daily seizure medications.

When to Call 911

While most seizures don't require emergency medical attention, there are situations when it's crucial to call 911:

• If it's a child's first seizure

• If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes

• If another seizure begins soon after the first

• If the person doesn't "wake up" after the seizure

• If the person was injured during the seizure

• If you suspect something else may be wrong or the person has another medical condition

By familiarizing yourself with seizure first aid, you can help keep someone safe during a seizure and provide them with the support they need. Remember to stay calm, focus on their safety, and call for help when necessary.

For more information on seizures and first aid, visit:

• Epilepsy Foundation - Seizure First Aid and Safety

• CDC - Seizure First Aid

• Healthline - Seizure First Aid: What to Do If Someone Has a Seizure