Most epileptic seizures happen without warning, last only a short time and stop without any special treatment. Attacks can result in injuries, but most people are not hurt in a seizure, and do not usually need to go to hospital or see a doctor. When an individual has a convulsive seizure it is possible that their regular breathing pattern will be interrupted and they may turn blue. Although thi s can be frightening to witness, it does not usually mean it is a medical emergency. What to do during a convulsive seizure: •Prevent others from crowding round. •Put something soft under the persons head (like a jacket or cardigan) to prevent injury. •Only move the sufferer if they are in a dangerous place, e.g. in the road, or at the top of a set of stairs. •Do not attempt to restrain the convulsive movements. Allow the seizure to take its course. •Do not put anything in the persons mouth. There is no danger of them swallowing their tongue and teeth can easily be broken. What to do when the seizure has stopped: •Roll the person, if possible, on to their side into the recovery position. •Wipe away any excess saliva and if breathing is still laboured check that nothing is blocking the throat such as dentures or food. •Do all you can to minimise embarrassment. If the person has been incontinent, deal with this as privately as possible. •Stay with the person, giving reassurance until they have fully recovered. When should you get medical help? •If someone has injured themselves badly in a seizure. •If they have trouble breathing after a seizure. •One seizure immediately follows another or the seizure lasts more than five minutes and you do not know how long they usually last.
Posted on: Wed, 12 Nov 2014 17:59:48 +0000
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