Seizure or fit: first aid

Do this now

1. 01Note the time it started. Five minutes is the threshold that changes what happens next.
2. 02Clear hard objects and furniture away from them.
3. 03Cushion the head with something soft.
4. 04Loosen anything tight around the neck.
5. 05When the shaking stops, roll them onto their side so saliva and vomit drain out.
6. 06Stay with them until they are fully alert. Confusion afterwards is normal and can last a while.
7. 07Ring 108 if it lasts over five minutes, if a second fit follows, if they are injured, pregnant, diabetic, or if this is their first ever fit.

Do not

• ×Do not put a spoon, a key, a finger or anything else in their mouth. They cannot swallow their tongue. This breaks teeth and jaws and bites off fingers.
• ×Do not hold them down or try to stop the movements.
• ×Do not make them smell an onion, a shoe or chappal. It does nothing.
• ×Do not throw water on them.
• ×Do not give food, water or medicine until they are completely alert.

What to tell the operator

• How long the shaking lasted
• Whether this is their first fit
• Whether they are breathing normally now
• Whether they are diabetic, pregnant, or take epilepsy medication

What this page cannot tell you

• What caused it — fever, epilepsy, low blood sugar and head injury all look alike from outside
• Whether another is coming