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Seizures in Children: Do's and Don'ts

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Seizure do’s and don’ts
  • January 06, 2025

Seizures in Children: Do's and Don'ts

Seizure do’s and don’ts: Witnessing a child experiencing a seizure can be a frightening experience, especially if it happens for the first time. While seizures are relatively common in children, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in the child’s safety and recovery. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the seizure do’s and don’ts when dealing with seizures in children.

Understanding Seizures

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. In children, seizures can stem from various causes, including fever (febrile seizures), epilepsy, infections, head injuries, or metabolic imbalances.

Seizure do’s and don’ts

What to Do During a Seizure

Stay Calm

  • Your calm demeanor can help you make better decisions and reassure the child once the seizure ends.

Protect the Child from Injury

  • Gently lay the child on their side to prevent choking.
  • Remove nearby objects that could cause harm.
  • Cushion their head with something soft, like a folded jacket or a pillow.

Time the seizure

Use a watch or phone to time how long the seizure lasts. This information is crucial for medical professionals.

Loosen Tight Clothing

Lose any tight clothing around the neck to ensure easy breathing.

Stay with the Child

  • Remain by their side until they fully regain consciousness.
  • Speak softly and offer comfort as they recover.

Call for Emergency Help If:

  • The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
  • The child has difficulty breathing after the seizure.
  • Another seizure follows immediately.
  • The child is injured during the episode.
  • It’s their first seizure, or you’re unsure of the cause.

What Not to Do During a Seizure

Don’t Restrain the Child

Trying to hold the child’s movements can lead to injuries.

Don’t Place Anything in Their Mouth

Contrary to common myths, a child cannot swallow their tongue during a seizure. Placing objects in their mouth can cause choking or dental injuries.

Don’t perform CPR during the seizure.

The child’s breathing usually resumes naturally after the seizure. However, if they don’t start breathing after the seizure ends, begin CPR and seek immediate help.

Don’t Give Food or Water

Avoid offering anything to eat or drink until the child is fully awake and alert.

Don’t Panic

Children are often more resilient than we realize, and seizures are typically not life-threatening when managed appropriately.

After the Seizure

Reassure the child: They may feel confused, scared, or tired. Offer comfort and explain what happened in simple terms.

Monitor Recovery: Keep an eye on their breathing, alertness, and behavior.

Document the Episode: Note details like duration, movements observed, and any triggers. This can help doctors provide an accurate diagnosis.

Follow Up with a Doctor: Seek medical advice to determine the cause and whether further tests or treatments are needed.

Preventive Measures and Long-Term Management

Identify Triggers

Common triggers include lack of sleep, stress, flashing lights, and fever. Keeping a journal can help pinpoint patterns.

Medication Adherence

If the child has been prescribed anti-seizure medication, ensure they take it as directed.

Educate caregivers and teachers

Inform those who regularly interact with the child about what to do in case of a seizure.

Create a Safe Environment

Remove sharp objects and ensure play areas are as safe as possible.

Regular Check-Ups

Maintain regular visits with a pediatric neurologist if the child has a history of seizures.

When to Seek Immediate Help

You should seek immediate medical care in the following cases:

  • Seizures lasting longer than five minutes (status epilepticus).
  • Difficulty waking up or prolonged confusion post-seizure.
  • Injuries sustained during the seizure.
  • Signs of illness like fever, stiff neck, or rash that could indicate an infection.

Bottom Line

Seizures in children, though alarming, can often be managed effectively with the right knowledge and approach. You can ensure their safety and well-being by staying calm, protecting the child, and seeking medical assistance when necessary. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and address any concerns about your child’s health.

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