First Aid Care for Seizures

First Aid Care for Seizures

Although a seizure can be frightening, it is easy to care for a person who is having a seizure. Most seizures only last a few minutes, and the person usually recovers fully without any complications.

  • Do not try to hold the person down or stop the seizure from happening.
  • Let the seizure run its course while protecting the person from injury. 
  • It is unsafe and unnecessary to put something between the person’s teeth to prevent tongue biting.
  • The person may be drowsy and disoriented for up to 20 minutes after the seizure has ended. 
  • Check the person for responsiveness and normal breathing. 
  • If the person is responsive and breathing normally but not yet fully awake, check the person for injuries. 
  • Stay with the person until he or she is fully recovered, or until emergency responders arrive.
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