12 Days of First Aid Tips: Epilepsy & Seizures

People with Photosensitive Epilepsy may be affected by flashing Christmas lights. Lights put up by public organisations must adhere to health and safety regulations preventing them from flashing at a rate that will trigger seizures. However, Christmas lights sold to the general public do not have to comply with these regulations.

In the fifth instalment of the 12 Days of First Aid Tips, we want to show you how to take care of someone experiencing a seizure.

5# Epilepsy & Seizures

During a seizure the casualty is likely to lose consciousness, their breathing will become difficult and they may begin to jerk violently losing control of their bodily functions.

You should support the casualty’s head and ensure the area is clear from obstructions that may cause injury. Never restrain them in any way.

If the casualty regularly experiences seizures you may be aware of how long they normally last. Record the length of the seizure and stay with them until they recover. If the seizure lasts longer than 10 minutes or if they have repeated seizures without regaining consciousness, you should call an ambulance.

If the casualty is experiencing a seizure for the first time, you should also ring an ambulance.

The 2015 Resuscitation Guidelines highlight that you shouldn’t rule out cardiac arrest when someone is displaying symptoms of a seizure. During cardiac arrest, the circulatory system cannot function effectively, when the brain is starved of oxygen it causes seizure like episodes, therefore you should always monitor the casualty and be prepared to administer CPR if they stop breathing.

When the casualty regains consciousness, you should reassure them and preserve their dignity if they have lost control of bodily functions such as their bladder.

If you have any questions about how to take care of someone experiencing a seizure, contact us via Facebook or Twitter.

Keep a look out for the next instalment of the 12 Days of First Aid Tips tomorrow for more festive pointers.