It's estimated that about 2.2 million people in the United States have epilepsy. That is approximately seven people for every 1,000. In terms of epilepsy, these numbers are even higher, at 8.4 out of every 1,000 people. These people have regular seizures and need to take medication to control them.

The power of first aid training is essential in helping someone if they have a seizure. This article outlines some of the steps to take in not only comforting the person, but in preventing a serious injury, or even death.

How to Help During a Seizure

Seizures are caused by sudden and uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain which interferes with speech, movement, muscle control, or awareness. They may cause a person’s whole body to convulse violently for a few seconds or minutes and can cause loss of consciousness.

Witnessing someone have a seizure can be scary, especially if you have never seen it happen before. However, it is important to stay calm and assist the person by doing the following:     

  • Stay with the person, talking to them in a calm, reassuring manner
  • Time the seizure from start to finish
  • Move objects that are in the way and could cause injury
  • If the person is on the ground and convulsing when you arrive, gently position them on their side with their mouth pointed towards the floor. This will prevent saliva from blocking their air passage, causing choking
  • Loosen any tight clothing such as neckties or belts making it easier to breathe 

What Not to Do

  • Do not put anything in the person’s mouth, such as your fingers
  • Do not try to restrain or hold down the person to stop the seizure. This can cause injuries and make the person confused or even aggressive
  • Do not give any liquids, pills, or food to the person until they are fully awake and aware. Anything that is swallowed could enter the lungs instead of the stomach 

What to do after a Seizure

  • Check the person for any injuries
  • Turn the person onto their side if you did not manage to do so during the seizure
  • If the person is having difficulty breathing, gently clear their mouth of any vomit or saliva using your fingers
  • Be supportive and ask any people around to stand back. Having a seizure can be embarrassing and frightening for a person, especially if it is their first one
  • Stay with the person until they are fully awake and aware of their surroundings. They will likely feel tired or confused after the seizure

When to Call 911

Not all seizures require medical assistance, however, in some cases, emergency help is needed during a seizure. For example, if the person stops breathing for more than 30 seconds, has had more than one seizure within 24 hours, or the seizure lasts longer than five minutes.

Nothing can guarantee you can be there to respond to a medical emergency such as a seizure. Thankfully, however, digital solutions such as Telus medical alert systems can detect falls and will provide emergency help ensuring the safety and well-being of your loved ones. Click on telus medical alert review to find out more.