First Aid for Epilepsy Seizure

First aid when dealing with an epileptic seizure

 

An epileptic seizure can (and usually does) happen in a split second and with little warning. What will make all the difference is how quickly you can respond to this emergency. Let’s learn the first aid basics of dealing with an epileptic seizure.

 

What is a seizure?

A seizure happens when there’s a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain. This surge can cause changes in the person’s movements and behaviour. Sometimes, the person may lose consciousness. An epilepsy patient is likely to have regular seizures and these seizures often vary in duration and intensity

 

Who gets an epileptic seizure?

Epilepsy is a health condition that can affect anyone, but certain people may be at a higher risk, such as those who’ve had brain injuries or brain damage from a stroke, trauma, meningitis infection, or a brain tumour. Genetics also play a role as those who have a family history of epilepsy may be more vulnerable to the condition. In children, those with developmental or neurological conditions such as autism or cerebral palsy could be more prone to seizures. It’s important to know that seizures aren’t limited to those with epilepsy. In some cases, babies and children may experience febrile seizures due to high fevers, and while some outgrow them, others may develop epilepsy later in life. Older adults are also at risk, often due to conditions like strokes or Alzheimer’s disease.

 

When and why do seizures happen?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to predict when a seizure might happen. Seizures can occur at any time, often without warning and each person’s triggers differ. Some people have seizures randomly, whilst others experience seizures that are linked to specific factors. For people with epilepsy, seizures can follow patterns based on their lifestyle, health, or environment. A few common triggers include chronic sleep issues, flashing lights, missing medications, and stress. People can also experience a seizure from a fever, illness, and low blood sugar.

 

First aid tips

It can be frightening to see your child or a loved one experiencing a seizure. While it’s impossible to always be prepared, you can learn a few first aid basics to help you through the situation. 

  1. Do your best to stay calm. It’s natural to feel panicked, but try to maintain your composure so that you have a clear mind and focus on helping. 
  2. Try to get the person into a safe space. This is your first priority, so move any sharp objects and furniture out of their way. 
  3. If possible, get the person into a seated/lying down position.
  4. Turn the person gently onto their side to help keep the airway clear and reduce the risk of choking.
  5. Do NOT hold the person down by force, it may just make them panic and flail about more intensely and they could further harm themselves. Let the seizure run its course. 
  6. Don’t put anything in their mouth. Placing objects in their mouth can cause an injury. 
  7. After the seizure, check for injuries. Stay with them until they are fully alert and give them reassurance as they may be feeling confused.

 

Get emergency medical help:

  • If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes. 
  • If it’s the person’s first seizure. 
  • If the person has trouble breathing afterward.  
  • If they get injured during the seizure.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.