Seizure First Aid: What to Do (and Not Do) When Someone Has a Seizure
Seizures can be scary to watch, but most aren't urgent medical emergencies. With the right knowledge, anyone can provide calm, effective help until the person recovers. This guide explains simple seizure first aid steps—and clears up some common misconceptions. No two seizures are exactly the same. Understanding the possibilities helps you respond quickly and safely. Symptoms may include:
Full body shaking
Staring or unresponsiveness
Repetitive movements
Collapse
Confusion or disorientation afterward
Seizure First Aid: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Stay Calm and Stay With the Person: Your presence and reassurance are important. Most seizures last 1–3 minutes.
2. Time the Seizure: If possible, note the start time. Seizures longer than 5 minutes need emergency medical attention.
3. Protect the Person From Injury: Gently guide them to the floor if necessary and move furniture or objects away. Place something soft under their head.
4. Turn the Person onto Their Side: This helps keep the airway clear and prevents choking if they vomit.
5. Loosen Tight Clothing: If they are wearing anything restrictive, like a collar, tie, scarf, or tight shirt, gently loosen it to help them breathe easier.
6. Stay With Them Until Fully Awake: They might be confused or tired afterward, which is normal.
What NOT to Do During a Seizure
These outdated myths persist, but following them can actually cause harm.
· Do NOT put anything in their mouth. They cannot swallow their tongue, and forcing objects in the mouth can break teeth or block the airway.
· Do NOT hold them down. Restraint can cause injuries to both you and the person having a seizure.
· Do NOT give food, drink, or medication during the seizure.
· Do NOT attempt CPR unless they are not breathing after the seizure stops.
When Is a Seizure an Emergency? When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Call 911 if any of the following occur:
The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
The person has repeated seizures without recovery
Breathing does not return to normal
The person is injured
The person is pregnant
It’s their first known seizure
Supporting Someone After a Seizure
The recovery phase, or postictal state, may include confusion, fatigue, headache, or emotional distress. Speak calmly, reassure them, and offer to help them sit down in a safe place until they feel steady.
Why Education Saves Lives
Knowing how to assist during a seizure can prevent injuries and improve outcomes. Sharing seizure first-aid information at schools, workplaces, and community events helps build a safer, more informed community for everyone.
If you or a loved one is living with seizures, we’re here to help. Our clinic provides comprehensive care—including diagnostics, medication management, women’s epilepsy expertise, and personalized treatment plans.
Contact us to schedule an appointment or learn more.