First Aid Treatment for Seizures

Most often seizures occur in those individuals who have epilepsy; however, other conditions can also cause seizures. Children may experience a seizure when overwhelmed with a high fever. Seizures occur when electrical signals misfire or are disrupted. Seizures are generally characterized by unconsciousness and rapid uncontrolled shaking or convulsions. In the event that you are with someone who has a seizure, the following guidelines should be followed.

Clear the Area

Move objects out of the way to prevent the person having the seizure from hurting herself.

Protect Head

Place a pillow or other soft object under the person's head to prevent him from banging his head on the floor.

Remain with the Seizure Sufferer

The caregiver should remain with the individual experiencing a seizure until she is completely recovered.

Get Additional Help

Call 9-1-1 if the person having a seizure is not breathing of if he has sustained an injury as the result of the seizure.

Avoid These Things

Do not put any objects in the individual's mouth. Do not attempt to move the individual unless she is in harm's way. Do not offer the individual food or drink until she has completely recovered from the seizure.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Epilepsy
• Epilepsy.org: First Aid