WHAT IS A SEIZURE?

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain.

  • Staring

  • Jerking movements of the arms and legs

  • Stiffening of the body

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Breathing problems or stopping breathing

  • Loss of bowel or bladder control

  • Falling suddenly for no apparent reason, especially when paired with loss of consciousness

  • Not responding to noise or words for brief periods

  • Appearing confused or in a haze

  • Nodding your head rhythmically, when associated with loss of awareness or loss of consciousness

  • Periods of rapid eye blinking and staring

GENERAL SYMPTOMS OF A SEIZURE

WHAT TO DO

  • Do move any objects away from the person having a seizure so that they don’t injure themselves.

  • Do time the seizure and call for emergency help if there are repeated seizures, if the person is injured or has difficulty breathing, or if the seizure lasts for more than five minutes

  • Do make the individual comfortable when the seizure stops

  • Do consider turning the person on their side after the seizure during the period of recovery

  • Do expect to find that the person who has had the seizure will be confused and tired afterwards