Media contact: Hannah Echols
Most seizures occur in non-medical settings. A UAB epilepsy expert provides information on best practices to help individuals during a seizure.Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting more than 54,000 people in Alabama and millions worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures.
At the forefront of epilepsy research and treatment is the University of Alabama at Birmingham Epilepsy Center, a collaborative initiative between the UAB Department of Neurology and UAB Hospital, which is the largest in the state of Alabama. Led by Jerzy Szaflarski, M.D., Ph.D., director of the UAB Division of Epilepsy, the center offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art care to approximately 5,000 patients every year.
“While expert medical and surgical care advances can help many patients with epilepsy become seizure-free and able to live fulfilling and independent lives, seizures often occur in a non-medical setting,” Szaflarski said. “This is why it is important for everyone to learn the vital first-aid measures that individuals need during a seizure.”
Seven tips to respond to epileptic seizures
1. Stay calm: Keep your composure and try to remain as calm as possible. Most seizures are brief and will resolve on their own.
2. Ensure safety: Gently guide the person to the ground to prevent them from falling and injuring themselves. Remove any nearby sharp objects or potential hazards.
3. Protect the head: Place a soft cushion, folded clothing or your hand under the person’s head to protect the head from injury.
Learn more about epilepsy care through the UAB Epilepsy Center here.
4. Turn to the side: If the person is lying on their back, gently roll them onto their side to help clear the airway and prevent choking in case of saliva or vomit.
5. Do not restrain: Do not restrain the person or put anything in their mouth; placing an object in the mouth can cause harm.
6. Time it out: Note the duration of the seizure. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if multiple seizures occur in a row, call 911 for immediate medical assistance.
7. Be supportive: After the seizure ends, offer reassurance and help the person regain their bearings. They may feel confused or disoriented.
Learn more about the UAB Epilepsy Center here.