How to Help Someone During a Seizure
- MedReport Foundation
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
By Shaik Tanveer Ulhaq
Introduction
Seizures are often misrepresented in movies and television, where they appear dramatic and always require emergency intervention. In reality, seizures can present in many different ways, and not all seizures require hospitalization. Understanding how to recognize seizures and respond appropriately can improve safety and outcomes for the affected individual.
Understanding Seizures
A seizure is a sudden episode of abnormal, excessive, or synchronous electrical activity in the brain that can affect movement, sensation, behavior, awareness, or consciousness.
Seizures are broadly classified into two categories:
Focal seizures, which originate in one area or network of one hemisphere of the brain.
Generalized seizures, which involve networks in both hemispheres from the onset.
These classifications are based on where seizure activity begins and the symptoms that occur.
Signs and Symptoms
Seizure manifestations vary widely and may include:
Involuntary jerking or stiffening of muscles
Loss of consciousness or awareness
Drooling or jaw clenching
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Abnormal eye movements
Sudden unresponsiveness or staring episodes
Repetitive movements such as lip smacking, chewing, or picking at clothing
Not all seizures involve convulsions. Some may present only as brief lapses in awareness or subtle behavioral changes.
Aura Phase
Some individuals experience a warning phase known as an aura before a seizure. An aura is actually a type of focal aware seizure and may involve:
Unusual smells, tastes, or sensations
Visual disturbances
Feelings of déjà vu
Sudden fear or anxiety
Nausea
Headache
Not everyone experiences an aura.
Postictal Phase
Following a seizure, individuals may enter a recovery period called the postictal phase, which can involve:
Confusion
Fatigue
Sleepiness
Headache
Muscle soreness
Difficulty speaking
This phase may last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the seizure type and individual factors.
First Aid During a Seizure
If you witness someone having a seizure:
Remain calm.
Stay with the person and reassure them.
Time the seizure from beginning to end.
Move nearby objects that could cause injury.
Gently guide the person away from danger if necessary.
Place something soft under their head if they are on the ground.
Loosen tight clothing around the neck if possible.
Check for medical identification jewelry or alerts.
Once jerking movements stop, roll the person onto their side to help keep the airway clear.
Stay with them until they are fully awake and oriented.
These measures help reduce injury and support breathing during recovery.
Actions to Avoid
Do not:
Put anything in the person's mouth.
Attempt to hold them down or restrain their movements.
Try to stop the seizure by force.
Give food, drink, or medication by mouth until they are fully alert and able to swallow safely.
Move the person unless they are in immediate danger.
Improper handling can increase the risk of injury.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Call emergency medical services if:
The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
Another seizure begins before the person has recovered from the first.
It is the person's first known seizure.
The person has difficulty breathing or does not regain consciousness after the seizure.
The person is injured during the seizure.
The seizure occurs in water.
The person is pregnant.
The person has diabetes and experiences a seizure.
You are uncertain whether emergency assistance is needed.
Many seizures stop on their own and do not require hospitalization, particularly in individuals with a known seizure disorder who recover as expected.
Post-Seizure Care
After the seizure:
Ensure the person is breathing normally.
Allow them to rest in a safe position.
Offer reassurance, as they may be confused, embarrassed, or frightened.
Avoid giving food or liquids until they are fully alert.
If medical evaluation is required, information such as seizure duration, symptoms, possible triggers, and events leading up to the seizure can help healthcare professionals determine the cause and guide treatment.
Common Misconceptions
"Seizures are rare."
Seizures are relatively common. Approximately 1 in 10 people will experience at least one seizure during their lifetime, although many do not develop epilepsy.
"One seizure means epilepsy."
A single seizure does not necessarily mean a person has epilepsy. Epilepsy is generally diagnosed after two unprovoked seizures occurring more than 24 hours apart, or after one unprovoked seizure when the risk of recurrence is considered high.
"A person can swallow their tongue."
This is a myth. It is physically impossible to swallow the tongue. However, tongue biting can occur during some seizures. Placing objects in the mouth is unsafe and should be avoided.
"All seizures involve convulsions."
Not all seizures cause shaking or jerking movements. Some involve only changes in awareness, sensation, emotions, or behavior.
"Hospitalization is always required."
Many seizures resolve spontaneously and require only supportive care and follow-up with a healthcare provider when appropriate.
"All seizures have the same cause."
Seizures can occur for many reasons, including:
Epilepsy
High fever (especially in young children)
Stroke
Head injury
Brain infections
Metabolic disturbances, such as abnormal blood sugar or electrolyte levels
Alcohol or drug withdrawal
Certain medications or substances
Seizure Preparedness
Individuals with recurrent seizures should consider developing a seizure action plan that includes:
Their typical seizure symptoms
Known triggers
Usual seizure duration
Emergency contact information
Instructions for bystanders
Information about rescue medications, if prescribed
Sharing this plan and wearing medical identification can help others respond appropriately during an emergency.
Conclusion
Seizures are complex neurological events that require informed and calm management. Appropriate first aid can prevent complications and reduce the risk of injury. Improving public understanding of seizures and correcting common misconceptions can also help reduce the stigma surrounding epilepsy and support those affected by seizure disorders.
Conclusion
1. Cleveland Clinic. Seizures [Internet]. Available from:
2. Mayo Clinic. Epilepsy: symptoms and causes [Internet]. Available from:
3. Epilepsy Society. First aid
