Seizure Management

Seizures are cause by a storm of electrical activity of the brain. There are many causes from epilepsy, metabolic disorders, hypoglycemia and more. In addition, there are many types.1,2

Symptoms (Grand Mal, clonic and myoclonic seizure):

• • Premonition: Some people know when a seizure is coming on such as dizziness, metallic taste, headache.

  • Sudden Fall.Usually will collapse with uncontrolled movement. Some will loose consciousness.

  • Muscle jerks.

  • Shallow breathing

  • Bluish skin.

  • Loss of control

Treatment3,4:

• • Create a safety zone. Move furniture and people out of the way. DO NOT RESTRAIN. DO NOT PUT ANYTHING IN MOUTH.

  • Support the head (can use your jacket if time permits) until seizure passes.Check watch to time seizure.

  • DO NOT place anything in mouth.

Post Seizure:

• • Loosen clothing. Get a history. "Are you on medication and have your taken it." Also get a history from bystanders. Person will need rest and assistance.

  • Turn patient on side (recovery positions) to clear airway of saliva or vomit.

  • Check arm for emergency bracelet with disorder and contact information.

• Exam for injuries

  • When to call 911:

    1. Seizure lasting more then 5 minutes.

    2. Stop breathing (will need CPR when stops jerking) or trouble breathing.

    3. First time seizure (no arm bracelet, not history of seizures from patient).

    4. Quick repeated seizures.

    5. Injuries suffered from seizure.

References:

• • Epilepsy Seizure Types and Symptoms   From WebMD

  • Seizures Emergencies From Emedicinehealth

  • Epilepsy Seizure Management. From the Epilepsy Foundation

• Emergency Seizure Treatment Step-by-Step