Someone on my FB TL just posted about how scared she was when she saw someone having a seizure in public, so I pulled out my “I have had a seizure” card for educational purposes. Also this diagram helps:
This is so important! My youngest brother has epilepsy, and this kind of info is crucial for people around him to know.
I would add, once they are awake and alert and able to sit up, water and a bit of food are super helpful, as their body has just been through an incredibly intense experience and they may be a bit dehydrated and blood sugar may be low.
Only call 911 in the scenarios listed. My brother prefers not to have an ambulance called, as it’s SUPER expensive and he’ll have to pay that off later, and they really don’t do anything for him other than give him fluids and food for recovery.
Also, once they’re able to communicate, check in with them about any injuries, if they fell. This is the time to determine if they may need to be evaluated for a concussion (which can be a trip to urgent care, rather than an ambulance ride).
They will not be able to drive at this point, so help with transportation, calling a family member or friend, etc. is helpful.
[ID:
SeizureFirstAid What to do in the event of a seizure
1. STAY with the person and start timing the seizure. Remain calm and check for a medical ID.
2. Keep the person SAFE. Move or guide away from harmful objects.
3. Turn the person onto their SIDE if they are not awake and aware. Don’t block airway, put something small and soft under the head, loosen tight clothes around the neck.
4. Do NOT put anything in their mouth. Don’t give water, food, or pills until the person is awake.
5. Do NOT restrain.
6. STAY with them until they are awake and alert after the seizure. Most seizures end in a few minutes.
Call 911:
- seizure lasts longer than five minutes - repeated seizures - difficulty breathing - seizure occurs in water - person is injured, pregnant, or sick - person does not return to their usual state - first time seizure
/End ID.]
Lifeguard here:
If the seizure occurs in the water, you (and others) should support their head/neck/shoulders without restraining to the best of your ability to keep them above the water. You can also use a lifeguard tube or noodle under their back. Do not backboard or extricate them until they’re done seizing. If they’re mobile after their seizure, they do not need to be extricated.
