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First aid for tonic-clonic seizures

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Once a tonic-clonic seizure has started there is nothing you can do to stop it.

  • If there are sharp or dangerous objects near the person, move those objects if possible. You should only move the person if they are near water or some other dangerous situation.

 

  • Try to cushion the person’s head. You could do this with a rolled up jumper or coat or even with your hands.

 

  • Man and woman talkingIt is likely that the jaw will be clenched during this type of seizure. Do not try to open their mouth or to put any objects in their mouth as this could damage their teeth or gums or block their airway.

 

  • When the seizure is over, turn the person on to their left side, into the recovery position. At this stage make sure their airway is clear and let the person recover. This procedure is taught on first aid courses, and so will be familiar to trained first aiders at work. You might also consider if it’s appropriate for other members of staff to be shown how to put someone in the recovery position.

 

  • Stay with the person if possible, until you are satisfied the seizure is over and that they do not need any further assistance.

 

  • Some people need to rest for some time after a seizure and your general first aid policy for supervising staff who are unwell could then be applied.

 

See also

  • First aid for seizures

 

Last updated 2 May 2007

 

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We can provide references and information on the source material we use to write our epilepsy advice and information pages. Please contact our Epilepsy Helpline by email at helpline@epilepsy.org.uk.
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Comments

I wish the world wasn't so ignorant when it comes across an epileptic. Some people can learn easily that epilpetics are not freaks where as others condem what they see as freaky.
I try not to go out doors anymore, as I do not feel safe in the town where I reside, this is not living, I am a prisoner here, because folk wont except nor will they learn.

Submitted by India on 9 December, 2008 - 18:19.

I agree with your comments, and accept that some people are unfortunately ignorant and unless they go through a particular experience they lack the emotional intelligence to comprehend the impact that they can have on others.

I have recently sufferred a tonic clonic seizure followed by two partial seizures 4 days apart. I am 50 years old and never suffered with epilepsy in my whole life, and it doesn't run in the family.

I love doing many sports and outside activities which I have had to stop doing for now, until I am fully assessed. I am on medication and now have to adjust to a whole new way of life. I know I am capable of adjustment, as I have worked with adult with learning difficulties and admire their determination to be included in every day life.

My immediate manager is a very insensitive individual at the best of times and so it is going to be difficult trying to get back to my normal job as it is very demanding and requires long periods of concentration. My Manager is always putting on pressure for work to be completed at short notice, this worries me as I am now becoming aware that anxiety can played a vital part in triggering my two subsequent seizures.

If anyone has any advice on how to tackle this please let me know?

Submitted by Martin Riley on 8 June, 2009 - 11:27.