First Aid for Seizures
Don't Panic! You can help.
Convulsive seizures look scary. And no matter how many times you see one, they will always be startling. But whoever you are, you can do lots to help. So take a deep breath, and follow these simple steps.
Explain what is going on. Ask to be given space.
When a seizure happens, people may not know what is going on and may crowd around to watch. Explain to people that the person is having a seizure and that it will be over soon. Ask everyone to stay back and allow some space so that when the person having the seizure wakes up they won't feel overwhelmed by strangers staring down from all around.
Cushion head and neck with something soft.
Place something soft under a person's head and neck during a convulsive seizure to prevent head injury. You could use anything that you might have on hand, such as a pillow or rolled up jacket.
Roll the person to their side to prevent choking.
Sometimes during a seizure a person may throw up or drool a lot. To prevent choking, simply roll the person on their side. That way, anything in the mouth will come out instead of blocking off the throat and airway.
Clear the area of dangers.
When a person has a convulsive seizure, their body, arms and legs will be shaking. To prevent them from hitting something nearby, move things out of the way that may pose a danger.
Do NOT put anything in the mouth!
There is an old myth that you should put something in a person's mouth during a seizure to keep them from swallowing their tongue. This is NOT TRUE and can be dangerous. It can accidentally cause the person to gag, break teeth or bite their tongue or cheeks.
Do NOT restrain!
You cannot stop a seizure by holding or shaking a person. If you try to restrain the person, their whole body will still be jerking and shaking. As a result, you could injure them, or you could accidentally get hit.
Speak gently. Be kind during and after the seizure.
After a seizure the person will be groggy and disoriented. By talking kindly throughout the seizure and after, not only will you offer comfort to the person, but you will calm yourself and others around you at the same time.