Read on to learn more about what you should and shouldn’t do when a seizure strikes.
Can You Prevent a Seizure?
If you suspect a seizure is coming on, there’s nothing you might do to prevent it.
Illustration by JR Bee for Verywell Health
As long as they’re breathing and uninjured, you may not need to get emergency medical help.
Doctors call this thepostictal state.
Reassure the person that everything is OK and calmly let them know what happened.
It’s important to double-check that any injuries are taken care of.
In some cases this information can be helpful in determining seizure triggers.
Let the emergency staff know about any other conditions the person has that may contribute to seizures.
For example, some people with diabetes and epilepsy may have low blood sugar before a seizure starts.
Should You Get First Aid Training?
If you’re around someone with epilepsy, you may want to look into epilepsy first aid training.
The Red Cross offers afirst aid appthat may be helpful during a seizure or other medical crises.
A Word From Verywell
The first time you witness a seizure, it can be pretty upsetting.
It’s normal to have a variety of emotions about it.
Take the time to talk to someone about your experience.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.First aid for seizures.
Epilepsy Foundation.Seizure first aid training and certification.
2016;86(8):723-30. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000002398
Brennan M, Whitehouse F.Case study: seizures and hypoglycemia.Clinical Diabetes.
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68:177-185. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.01.006.
