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First Aid for an Epilepsy Seizure

Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju
Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju

Epilepsy is a dangerous neurological ailment caused by a deteriorated gray substance. This severe disorder provokes a range of symptoms that require permanent attention provided by caregivers to avoid threatening situations.

The neurologists insist epilepsy treatment foresees a phased recovery program, including first aid practices in case of instant seizures. As such, in-time and effective emergency care should be classified by:

  • Disease severity and convulsions attack intensity;
  • A place where a patient faces epileptic seizures;
  • Items available to support the relief measures;
  • Specific circumstances that require amateurs or professional medical aid like pregnancy or accompanying ailments;
  • Seizure duration.

Apart from epilepsy-positive patients, the recovery activities performed during convulsion attacks could be hardly successful without the protection and caution of the first aid providers. Uncontrolled movements are harmful to everyone who lacks experience and knowledge about the specifications of epileptic spasms.

General Rules of First Aid for an Epilepsy Seizure

To clarify the action plan for those, who think about what to do after someone has a seizure, you need to realize that the first aid for people with epileptic seizures should comply with the nature and type of the convulsionary attacks. So, how to help someone having a seizure?

  • Try to refrain from the patient’s fall or maximumly mitigate its adverse consequences;
  • Calm a patient and help him sit or lay on a flat surface;
  • Remove any dangerous item if the patient is conscious;
  • Fix a time when seizures start. You may write an accurate time and monitor the duration of attacks;
  • Put something soft like a pillow or wrapped cloth under the laying patient’s head. If you have nothing appropriate, you may place their head on your knees;
  • Turn the head on the left or right side to avoid a choking situation resulting from foamy saliva release;
  • Alleviate respiratory dysfunctions restricted by tightening apparel;
  • Let them take a safe position during intense epileptic seizures;
  • If the patient’s teeth do not bite and strokes are indicated at the initial phase, you may put a soft wrap to eliminate the chances of traumas or other hazards. However, such manipulations are prohibited if their attacks are potent;
  • Once spasms are complete, patients are suggested to stay immobilized and rest for some time. Such actions are essential to rehabilitating normal functions and cognitive abilities;
  • If patients receive traumas or injuries due to uncontrolled motions, help them treat damages with an antiseptic solution.

 

Epilepsy Seizure general rules

What to Do If Someone Has Seizure in Water, Sleep, Car, or Wheelchair

The general concept regarding what to do in a seizure peak would be less productive if you apply it to each situation. Indeed, you need to choose methods for seizure precautions or their minimization based on conditions and places. The external circumstances significantly modify the first aid strategy and reduce traumatic risks. As such, caregivers and epileptic patients should differ treatment techniques for seizure relief according to the following particularities.

Seizure in Water 

Water provides a range of threatening consequences which could jeopardize the first aid manipulations if sufferers have severe neurological disorders. Therefore, caregivers, including family members, friends, or coaches, should act rationally and quickly:

  • Help a person reach a shore or other hard flat surface;
  • Remove water from the mouth and nose. The answer to what to do when someone has a seizure in water depends on the victim’s state of complexity and the risks of being underwater. Thus, you need to check the patient’s nasal cavity for grass, dust, or foreign objects;
  • Repeat the basic actions acceptable for epileptic seizures. Place patients on the side, do not leave them alone till the seizures stop, and manage the overall situation in line with the general rules;
  • Wait for a moment when attack signs are gone and cover the patient with warm towels if needed;
  • Call an ambulance to ensure the patient’s health conditions are safe and their respiratory functions have not deteriorated.

Seizure in Sleep

Sleeping time for epilepsy-diagnosed people threatens their health and life. The fatal risks are high due to limited opportunities for first aid provision if seizures start. Any efforts you would like to initiate have no sense without the proper medication treatment. However, you may arrange the bedroom and consider all probable scenarios of attack progress:

  • Hide sharp or traumatic objects placed near the bed;
  • Use soft and elastic pillows;
  • Adjust the bed boards with appropriate protectors;
  • Train your relatives with epileptic symptoms to apply side-sleeping poses. Such practices avoid situations when they could stop breathing due to sudden convulsions;
  • Plan bedroom microclimate indicators which could not stimulate uncontrolled movements. Drastic fluctuations of air humidity or indoor temperature could provoke neurological disorder symptoms;
  • Periodically check the patient’s state during napping time.

Seizure in Car

Driving is not permitted for epilepsy-diagnosed people. Sudden loss of movement control adversely affects the health and life of passengers and other traffic participants. Upon the clinical surveys and testing fact-findings, the qualified neurological conclusion will distinguish:

  • Types of seizures you have;
  • The severity of the disease;
  • Duration of each convulsion session;
  • Deadline to reconsider the medical prescriptions and conditions to cancel the driving restrictions.

However, you need to know what to do if someone has a seizure in the passenger seat. In any case, you must stop a car and conduct seizure mitigation measures with minimal effects on you and your passenger.

Always free people with seizures from a seat belt if risks which deteriorate breathing abilities are minimal. Take care for post-attack periods when people require proper attention and even medical examination to reject any hazardous damage or injury.

Seizure in Wheelchair

Disabled people with epilepsy-related neurological disorders are vulnerable when they go through challenging health disturbances. The first aid instruction for patients with epileptic seizures represents an easy-to-implement step-by-step approach:

  • Do not move a convulsionary person and leave them seated. Pose changes are allowed if there is a risk of serious injury;
  • Put the wheelchair brakes on or use a locking option in tilt samples;
  • Keep the head immobilized during the attacks;
  • Lean a patient on once the seizures refrain and help them renovate living functions.

People in wheelchairs are a particular category of patients with neurological disorders. Therefore, caregivers should understand the necessity of someone’s assistance to reduce unpleasant risks for general health deterioration. Always call for an ambulance or go to the clinic to set aside traumatic cases.

What You Should NOT DO in Epileptic Seizure

Along with recommendations about what to do if someone has a seizure, each caregiver should distinguish dos and don’ts actions to recover seizure-suffering patients without traumatic cases:

  • Force a person up or down when seizures achieve the active phase;
  • Unclench teeth using different forcible methods;
  • CPR and indirect heart massage provide high traumatic effects;
  • Water a person or dip them into the liquid;
  • Give pills during a seizure.

Never leave a shaking person alone because epileptic patients can not control their movements and eliminate their cognitive dysfunctions for a particular period. If you assume internal traumas or external injuries, you should not neglect the suggestions provided by the treating neurologists and arrive a patient to the clinic.

In-time medical aid declines the risks of repeated seizures or prolonging their frequency. In addition, you need to take care of yourself when providing first aid to convulsing people.

Safety during first aid in epileptic seizures

Your Safety During First Aid in Epileptic Seizures

Before you plan what to do during a seizure, you must consider your safety. Epilepsy is hazardous for patients and their caretakers. Seizures decrease motion control abilities and make convulsing people dangerous for the surroundings.

  • The situation is getting worse in pandemic times. When you help a stranger with epileptic seizures, try to be careful and destinate yourself to minimize the chances of coronavirus or other virus infection. Do not neglect the prevention cautions. Use gloves, protection masks, and disinfection solutions during the first aid provisions. Also, adhere to sanitary rules once everything is over.
  • Do not panic, and remember that rational behavior will minimize threatening situations that jeopardize life or health. Emotional resistance is essential, especially with seizures in children or older adults. The post-spasm period requests to receive support and optimistic statements to speed up the relief process.
  • You should not punish yourself for plans to create a safe space for both. Indeed, self-protection measures help monitor the convulsing person’s health and prevent force majeure circumstances when you could supervise the involuntary activities.

To find out more details about personal safety during epileptic seizures, you may perform several actions:

  • Visit specialized first aid classes and receive the respective certified qualification;
  • Consult the treating neurologist to adjust the correct sequence of emergency activities;
  • Observe thematic articles and scientific conclusions;
  • Watch documentary films or videos about getting rid of epileptic seizures.

Anyway, you should remember the safety of the person, who conducts the first aid measures, prevails in order to stabilize the patient’s uncontrolled movements.

How to Reduce the Risks of Epileptic Seizures

The solutions regarding how to treat a seizure would be realistic and achievable if you draw up a guide of seizure preventive rules:

  • Obey neurologist’s prescriptions and do not miss time to take medication;
  • Modify your dietary formula and increase foods enriched in group B vitamins and antioxidants;
  • Exclude alcohol and casein-contained drinks;
  • Balance emotions and manage stressful situations;
  • Schedule daily sessions for active physical exercises, including outdoor walks, muscle strength workouts, and flexibility fitness activities;
  • Combine active and resting sessions. Significant attention should be paid to sleeping time standards;
  • Protect yourself from head injuries and other brain accidental traumas;
  • Avoid bright lights or sharp temperature differences;
  • Keep the appropriate body water balance;
  • Treat accompanying neurological ailments like dementia, anxiety, depression and others.

The rare epilepsy-diagnosed cases are subject to surgical interventions, significantly reducing seizure risks.

In addition, if epilepsy affects your child, you need to control their health and decrease body fever appearing without reasonable triggers. The seizure precautions are adjusted by the comprehensive knowledge about possible epilepsy onsets. All information about the diagnosed symptoms you gain is your solution for an effective therapy program and fast recovery results.

Lone Star Neurology Team Overcomes Epileptic Seizures With Effective Treatment Mediums

Seizures are a severe symptom to assess the epilepsy progress. They deteriorate motor functions and make them out of the patient’s control. However, caregivers can manage these involuntary convulsions and help patients with epilepsy treat post-seizure state. To this end, each activity related to the recovery program for epileptic cases should be accompanied by proper neurological supervision and periodical clinical procedures to modify therapy approaches. Thus, the Lone Star Neurology team is qualified to resolve numerous neurological disorders and their symptoms.

FAQs 

Why is safety important in giving first aid in epileptic seizures?

Seizures decrease motion control abilities and make convulsing people dangerous for the surroundings. Safety is a priority task for first aid providers, primarily if you deal with epileptic seizures. Such persons should know all protection specifications for both during uncontrolled attacks.  

Can pregnancy cause epileptic seizures?

Pregnancy can not cause epileptic seizures. However, pregnant women with epilepsy should be careful in case of sudden convulsions, which could hurt them and their babies. The first aid rules for these categories of patients are similar to general seizure-treatment actions with significant attention to anti-traumatic measures.

How to help someone having a seizure?

A brief seizure treatment guideline includes several universal steps: 

  • Remove traumatic items; 
  • Place a person on the side; 
  • Fix a seizure duration;
  • Control the convulsion proceedings;
  • Let a person get rid of temporary respiratory dysfunctions;
  • Help a person to recover their abilities after seizure completion.

Can you talk to someone during a seizure?

Communication activities during the seizure peak are hardly practical. However, supportive speech and calm phrases at the recovery stage would encourage a person who tries to relieve after seizure precautions.

What can trigger a seizure?

Seizures could inform you of not only epilepsy but also other neurological disorders. Different triggers provoke involuntary movements: lack of medication, alcohol, caffeine, stress, tiredness, dementia and related deteriorations, dehydration, and recreational drugs.

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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