First Aid for Seizures

Seizures First Aid is Simple
The most important thing to do when someone is having a seizure is to stay cool. Most seizures are not emergencies and don’t require an ambulance. In fact, most seizures end on their own, in a few seconds or minutes. But there are some simple things you can do to help a person who is having a seizure avoid unnecessary injury. Watch our short video on seizure first aid. Here’s what you can do to help:

What to do:
If a friend with epilepsy falls down and begins to shake during a seizure (convulsions):

• Stay calm
• Time the seizure
• Cushion his/her head to protect it from hazards like nearby furniture
• Loosen anything tight around your friend’s neck
• Turn your friend gently to one side to prevent choking
• Check for medical alert ID
• Explain to others what is happening
• Stay until the person is fully aware and awake, and offer help
• When the seizure is over, listen to your friend, be understanding

If a friend has a seizure that looks like he/she is staring blankly, is confused or has lost awareness, coupled with other strange movements:

• Time the seizure
• Speak calmly
• Don’t grab or restrain your friend
• Explain to others what is happening
• Guide the person away from hazards like furniture, roadways and sharp objects
• Stay nearby until your friend is fully aware again

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