You can help protect someone during a seizure by being prepared to take simple steps. But you can help protect someone from harm during one. Some seizures are more dangerous than others, but most aren't
an emergency. If you want to do something for the person, focus on keeping them safe. The type of seizure most people will think of is the generalized tonic-clonic seizure, better known as a grand mal seizure. They're frightening to watch, and someone who has one rarely knows or remembers what's happening. These seizures follow a pattern: Any generalized seizure can be dangerous because the person is unaware of their surroundings and can't protect themselves from harm. The uncontrolled thrashing raises their chances of getting hurt. Focal seizures are different. They're less intense and usually last no more than a minute or two. Part of their body, like an arm, might get stiff or go floppy. You may
see repeated, rhythmic, or jerking movements in one place or that spread to different body parts. The person could zone out or stare at nothing. They may or may not realize what's happening but can't control it. When it's over, they won't remember a thing. It's all about taking precautions. For someone having a generalized tonic-clonic seizure:
Don't put anything in their mouth. Contrary to popular myth, you can't swallow your tongue during a seizure. But
putting something in their mouth could damage their teeth, or they might bite you. If their head isn't moving, turn it to one side. Look at your watch at the start of the seizure, so you can time its length. Remember, this probably isn't an emergency,
although it may look like one. After the jerking stops, gently place them on their side, to help keep their airway clear. For milder seizures, like a bit of staring or shaking arms or legs, guide the person away from hazards, including traffic, stairs, and water. Don't leave someone who's had a seizure alone. Stay until they're fully aware of where they are and can respond normally when you talk to them. Speak calmly. Reassure them and explain what they missed if they're confused or frightened. Don't give them anything to drink or eat until they've completely recovered. Rescue Medications/TreatmentsThere are medicines and treatments which can and should be used in specific situations. Referred to as “rescue medications,” they do not take the place of daily medications and should only be used to help stop a seizure quickly in emergency situations. Depending on the circumstance, they can be administered:
The most commonly used medications are benzodiazepines because they get into the bloodstream quickly to start working on the brain to stop the seizure. They include:
When to Call 911Get medical help when:
If you're concerned that something else may be wrong, or the person has another medical condition such as heart disease or diabetes, call a doctor. What should you not do when a student is having tonicDo not attempt to hold the person still. Do not put anything in the person's mouth. It is physically impossible to swallow one's tongue, and putting things in the mouth may lead to injury. Time the seizure.
What not to do when a student is having a seizure?Avoid holding the person down or restricting their movements. Do not put anything in the person's mouth. Do not offer the person food or water until they are fully alert. Do not give mouth-to-mouth breaths or CPR, because people can normally breathe on their own shortly after the seizure ends.
What should not be done during the time of seizure?Don't try to hold them down or stop the movements. Place them on their side, to help keep their airway clear. Look at your watch at the start of the seizure, to time its length. Don't put anything in their mouth.
When a student is suffering a tonicA tonic-clonic seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes needs immediate medical help. Call 911 for emergency help. A seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes, or three seizures in a row without the person coming to between them, is a dangerous condition.
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