About First Aid for Seizure Patients

Knowing how to respond when a child is having a seizure can make a significant difference in ensuring their safety. As a trainer for numerous workshops on epilepsy, here are the key first aid steps I recommend:

Stay Calm and Time the Seizure: Keep a close watch on the child and time how long the seizure lasts. This information is valuable for medical professionals.

Keep the Child Safe:
Move any hard or sharp objects away from the child to prevent injury.
If the child is standing, gently guide them to the floor.
Place something soft and flat, like a folded jacket, under their head.

Turn the Child onto Their Side: If possible, gently roll the child onto their side. This helps them breathe more easily and prevents them from choking on saliva.

Do Not Restrain the Child: Never hold the child down or try to stop their movements.

Do Not Put Anything in Their Mouth: It is a myth that a person having a seizure can swallow their tongue. Putting objects in their mouth can lead to injuries to their teeth or jaw.

Stay with Them: Remain with the child until the seizure is over and they are fully awake. Once they regain consciousness, be calm and reassuring.

When to Call for Emergency Help:

If the seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes.
If the child has difficulty breathing or turns blue.
If the child has another seizure soon after the first one.
If the child is injured during the seizure.
If the child has a known heart condition or diabetes.

As part of my commitment to public education, I have conducted multiple radio and television interviews to share this vital information and improve epilepsy awareness across the community.