How to react when witnessing an epileptic seizure?

Epilepsy is a neurological disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. People with epilepsy may experience seizures, which are sudden and often frightening events. If you witness an epileptic seizure, it is important to know how to respond appropriately to help the person in need. In this article, we will discuss how to recognize an epileptic seizure, why you should help, steps to take, and things not to do in such a situation.

What does an epileptic seizure look like?

An epileptic seizure can take many forms, but the most common symptoms include:

• Tremors of the body or limbs
• Mouth rubbing and drooling
• Random movements of arms and legs
• Loss of consciousness

It’s worth remembering that not all epileptic seizures look the same, so symptoms may vary from case to case.

Why should we help?

Helping a person undergoing an epileptic seizure is extremely important for several reasons:

1. The person may hurt themselves during a seizure, for example hitting furniture or falling.
2. Having a seizure can be terrifying for the person experiencing it, and support can help them feel safer.
3. Failure to provide help may lead to complications or deterioration of the health condition of a person with epilepsy.

What steps should you take?

If you witness a seizure, follow these steps:

1. Remove potential dangers: Try to surround the person with a clear space to avoid the risk of hitting sharp objects or furniture.
2. Support the head: Gently place something soft, such as a pillow, under the person’s head to prevent head injuries.
3. Don’t put anything in your mouth: Don’t try to put anything in the person’s mouth during a seizure, as this could result in tooth damage or suffocation.
4. Watch the time: Make a note of how long the seizure lasts, as this may be important information for your doctor.
5. After the seizure: After the seizure has ended, help the person regain consciousness and provide emotional support.

What should you not do to a patient during an epileptic seizure?

There are also things you absolutely must not do if you witness an epileptic seizure:

• Don’t put anything into the person’s mouth in an attempt to avoid biting their tongue.
• Don’t move the person too vigorously or try to control his or her movements.
• Do not leave the person alone during an attack.

Do we always have to call an ambulance?

In most cases, there is no need to call an ambulance immediately if a person with epilepsy has already been diagnosed and it is a typical seizure for them. However, if:

• The attack lasts longer than 5 minutes
• The person has another seizure right after the first one
• The person was injured during the attack,

it is necessary to call for medical help.

Your suggestions

If you are a loved one of someone suffering from epilepsy, it is worth learning more about it and how to react in the event of a seizure. You can also ask your doctor for specific tips on caring for someone with epilepsy.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in epilepsy and how to help people struggling with it, we recommend reading articles on this subject available from various medical sources and organizations dealing with epilepsy. Knowing this can be invaluable if you witness an epileptic seizure.

It is worth remembering that each person with epilepsy may have different needs and react differently to seizures. The most important thing is to provide her with support, empathy and safety in a difficult moment.