Seizure

Seizures (or convulsions) are temporary alterations in brain function expressing themselves into a changed mental state, tonic or clonic movements and various other symptoms. They are due to temporary abnormal electrical activity of a group of brain cells.

Management

The first-aid for a seizure depends on the type of seizure occurring. Generalised seizures will cause the person to fall, which may result in injury. A tonic-clonic seizure results in violent movements that cannot and should not be suppressed. The person should never be restrained, nor should there be any attempt to put something in the mouth. Potentially sharp or dangerous objects should also be moved from the vicinity, so that the individual does not hurt him or herself. After the seizure, if the person is not fully conscious and alert, they should be placed in the recovery position.

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It is not necessary to call an ambulance if the person is known to have epilepsy, the seizure is shorter than 5 minutes and is typical for them, it is not immediately followed by another seizure, and the person is uninjured. Otherwise, or if in any doubt, medical assistance should be sought.

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A seizure longer than 5 minutes is a medical emergency. Relatives and other carers of those known to have epilepsy often carry medicine such as rectal diazepam or buccal midazolam in order to rapidly end the seizure.

Related Topics:
Diazepam - Buccal - Midazolam

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