Seizure First Aid: What to Do and What NOT to Do (Video)

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Read the full written guide: Seizure First Aid (Mirgi Ka Dora): Do This, Never Do That →

This video walks you through the essential steps to keep someone safe during a seizure, from timing the event to clearing the area and protecting the head. We also bust common myths, explain when to call emergency services, and share a quick four-word reminder you can teach your family.

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Transcript

Did you know a seizure usually stops in under two minutes?

Did you know a seizure usually stops in under two minutes?

Seizure First Aid Basics

Learn the exact steps to keep someone safe during a seizure, and stay for the one mistake that can cost you.

Immediate Steps

When a seizure starts, glance at a clock and note the time. Quickly push away tables, chairs, hot cups, anything sharp. Place a jacket or your hands under their head, and loosen tight collars or scarves. After the jerking stops, gently roll them onto their side to keep the airway open.

Call Help If

If the jerking lasts more than five minutes, or a new seizure starts before they’re alert, call an ambulance. Also dial emergency if they stop breathing normally, their lips turn dusky, or they’ve hit their head. Also call if the person is pregnant, has diabetes, or known heart disease.

Myths to Avoid

Forget the old tales. Do not jam a spoon, keys, or fingers in the mouth, nothing can be swallowed. Don’t try to hold the arms or legs; you can cause injuries. And never splash water on the face; it won’t stop the fit. Don’t place a shoe or onion under the nose; it won’t end the seizure.

Kids and Fever Fits

A child between six months and five years may get a brief fever-induced convulsion. It typically lasts under two minutes and stops on its own. If it’s their first fever fit, call emergency services right away. After it ends, roll them onto their side and stay until they’re fully awake.

Seizure duration limit

Most seizures stop within five minutes, but watch the clock.

Typical seizure length

Typical convulsions last about two minutes before the jerking slows.

The one mistake to avoid

The one mistake that hurts most is trying to stuff something in the person’s mouth. It does nothing to stop the seizure and can cause broken teeth or a blocked airway. Keep the mouth clear.

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Read the full guide

Read the complete guide on thecareonline.com. This is general information, not medical advice.

Nothing on The Care Online is medical advice. Traditional practices are described as tradition, not as fact. Take a persistent or serious concern to a qualified professional. See how videos and posts are made on our methodology page.