Witnessing someone have a seizure can be frightening—but knowing what to do (and what not to do) can prevent serious injury and even save a life. Proper first aid focuses on safety, timing, and calm response, not restraint.

Seizure response training is an important part of CPR and first aid certification and overall emergency preparedness.

Understanding Seizures

Seizures occur due to sudden electrical disturbances in the brain. They can happen because of:

  • Epilepsy
  • Head injury
  • High fever (especially in children)
  • Stroke or infection
  • Low blood sugar or oxygen deprivation

Not all seizures look the same, but first aid principles remain consistent.

Signs a Seizure Is Happening

Common signs include:

  • Sudden loss of consciousness
  • Uncontrolled jerking or stiffening
  • Blank staring
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Temporary confusion afterward

Most seizures stop on their own within a few minutes.

Step-by-Step: What to Do During a Seizure

1. Stay Calm and Time the Seizure

  • Note when the seizure starts
  • Most seizures last 1–3 minutes
  • Timing helps emergency responders if needed

2. Protect the Person From Injury

  • Move nearby objects away
  • Cushion the head with something soft
  • Loosen tight clothing around the neck

These injury-prevention steps are taught in CPR certification programs.

3. Do NOT Restrain the Person

  • Do not hold them down
  • Do not try to stop the movements

Restraint can cause fractures or muscle injuries.

4. Do NOT Put Anything in the Mouth

  • They will not swallow their tongue
  • Objects can break teeth or block the airway

This is one of the most dangerous seizure myths.

5. Roll Onto the Side After the Seizure

Once movements stop:

  • Turn the person onto their side
  • This helps keep the airway clear
  • Allow saliva or vomit to drain safely

Airway protection is emphasized in basic life support certification training.

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When to Call Emergency Services

Call for emergency help if:

  • The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
  • Another seizure begins immediately
  • The person is injured or pregnant
  • It’s their first known seizure
  • Breathing does not return to normal

What to Do After the Seizure

Post-seizure care includes:

  • Staying with the person until fully alert
  • Speaking calmly and reassuringly
  • Checking for injuries
  • Not giving food or drink until fully awake

Confusion and fatigue are normal after a seizure.

Seizures and CPR: When Is It Needed?

CPR is not usually needed during a seizure. However, begin CPR if:

  • The person is unresponsive after the seizure
  • They are not breathing normally

Training through online CPR certification prepares responders for this situation.

What NOT to Do During a Seizure

Avoid these mistakes:

  • Do not restrain movements
  • Do not put objects in the mouth
  • Do not give food, water, or medication
  • Do not panic or crowd the person

Final Thoughts: Calm Action Saves Lives

Most seizures are not medical emergencies—but proper first aid prevents injury and supports recovery. Knowing what to do helps you act calmly, confidently, and safely.

Prepared people make emergencies safer for everyone.

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