by Kat Centeno

Created on: December 12, 2011   Last Updated: December 17, 2011

The National Institute of neurological Disorders and Stroke defines epilepsy as "a brain disorder in which clusters of nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain sometimes signal abnormally". The brain is a complex chemical as well as an electrical organ. A disruption of its signals between neurons (brain cells) can trigger a seizure. When a person frequently experiences seizure, they are considered to be epileptic.

Different conditions may trigger an epileptic attack. For those who are not prepared to witness an epileptic attack, it can be frightening.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists several ways to provide first aid for seizures.

Stay calm

Panicking while someone is having a seizure does not help.  Thus, the first thing to do is to stay calm. Other people who also witness the same incident may follow suit.  It would be a difficult situation to control if a lot of people are panicking.  Panic begets panic.

Safety

Focus on the person having an epileptic fit and think of the person's safety. If instinct tells you to restrain the person, don't.  Instead, clear the area of any sharp objects or anything that can cause an injury.  Cushion the person’s head with something soft.  Jerking movements can cause bumps on the person's head when it makes contact with a hard surface. Loosen ties or clothing that might restrict their breathing.

Dispel old claim

Do not put anything in the person's mouth. The old trick of placing a spoon to prevent a person from swallowing his tongue can injure a person's jaw and teeth.  Instead, turn the person on their side as gently as possible to clear the airway and drain off fluids in the mouth.

No artificial respiration

It is advised not to attempt artificial respiration when the person having a fit looks unconscious (unless the person is not breathing anymore). A person may sleep after a seizure. It is a brain's way of recovering from the trauma. Do not wake them. Instead, stay with them until he/she is fully awake.

When to call for help

Not all seizures are the same. CDC suggests calling for emergency help when the seizure still continues after 5 minutes have passed. If the person experiences seizure for  the first time, immediate medical attention is needed. In any incident that looks like someone needs immediate medical attention, emergency help should be called.

Statistics from the Epilepsy Foundation shows that epilepsy affects “nearly 3 million Americans of all ages”. Knowing what to do when someone experiences an epileptic fit may save a life.

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