How Can I Help Someone Who Is Having an Epileptic Seizure?

How To Information: If You Witness a Seizure

• You cannot stop a seizure, so do not try.

• Do not shake or hold the person who is having the seizure.

• Do not put anything in the person's mouth, not even medicine. People do not swallow their tongues during seizures. Trying to give medicine, however, may cause choking.

• Do place something soft, such as a pillow or a rolled up coat, under the person's head. This action will help protect the head from injury.

• Do try rolling the person on his or her side to keep the airways clear.

• Do loosen ties or shirt collars.

• Remove any nearby hazards, such as knives or hot beverages.

• When the person regains consciousness, he or she may be dazed or tired. Stay calm, be reassuring, and stay beside the person until he or she feels better again.

• If the seizure lasts less than five minutes, ask about a hospital evaluation.

Call 911 if:

• The person having the seizure is pregnant, injured, or diabetic.

• The seizure happens in water.

• The seizure lasts more than five minutes.

• A second seizure begins before the person regains consciousness.

• The person does not begin breathing normally and does not return to consciousness after the seizure stops.

• This is a first seizure.