I am epileptic and have been since I had my first seizure on March 20, 2008. I was in line at RBC Independence Square. From all accounts, I fell to the ground convulsing and frothin through the mouth, while going in and out of consciousness. When I came to, I was weak, disoriented and unable to identify myself.

The EHS was called and I was transported to the Port of Spain General Hospital where I remained warded for ten days.

So began my life with seizures.

Seizures can be a frightening experience for both the person having a seizure and those who witness it. However, knowing how to provide seizure first aid can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of the person during and after a seizure.

Here’s what you should know:

Stay Calm: It’s essential to remain calm when you witness a seizure. Most seizures are brief, and the person usually recovers without any long-term harm.

Ensure Safety: Your primary goal is to keep the person safe during the seizure. Clear the area of any sharp or hard objects that could cause injury. If the person is near a dangerous location, gently guide them to a safer spot if possible.

Protect the Head: Place something soft under the person’s head, like a folded jacket or cushion, to prevent head injury. Do not restrain their movements or place anything in their mouth.

Time the Seizure: It’s crucial to note the duration of the seizure. Most seizures last for a minute or two. If the seizure continues for longer than five minutes, or if a person has multiple seizures without regaining consciousness between them, it’s a medical emergency, and you should call for help.

Monitor Breathing: Turn the person onto their side to help keep their airway clear and allow any fluids to drain from the mouth. After the seizure, check to ensure they are breathing normally. If not, perform rescue breathing.

Offer Reassurance: Once the seizure has ended, the person may be confused, disoriented, or scared. Offer reassurance and let them know what happened. Speak calmly and provide comfort.

Don’t Force Anything: Do not try to hold the person down or force any objects into their mouth. It’s a common misconception that people can swallow their tongues during a seizure, but this is not the case.

Be Observant: Observe and take note of any details about the seizure, such as the type of movements, duration, and any signs or symptoms. This information can be valuable for healthcare professionals.

Stay with the Person: Keep an eye on the person until they are fully alert and oriented. They may need some time to recover and regain their strength.

When to Seek Medical Help: Call for medical assistance if it’s the person’s first seizure, if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if they have difficulty breathing afterward, or if they’re injured during the seizure.

Remember that while witnessing a seizure can be distressing, providing seizure first aid can make a significant difference in ensuring the person’s safety. Educating yourself about seizures and knowing how to respond is a valuable skill that can help those in need during a critical moment.