If you see someone having a tonic‑clonic seizure, the first thing is to stay calm. Panic makes it harder to think clearly, and the person can sense your anxiety. Take a quick breath, then focus on three simple goals: protect, time, and call.
Protect the head. Gently roll a soft jacket, pillow, or folded shirt under the person’s head. This prevents a hard knock on the floor and reduces the risk of a bruised skull.
Clear the area. Move sharp objects, furniture legs, or anything the person could hit. Don’t try to hold them down or stop the jerking—this can cause injuries or trigger airway problems.
Turn them onto their side. As the seizure eases, carefully roll the person onto their left side. This “recovery position” keeps fluids from spilling into the throat and helps the airway stay open.
Time the seizure. Start a watch or count out loud. Most tonic‑clonic seizures stop on their own within one to two minutes. If it lasts longer than five minutes, call emergency services (911 in the US) right away.
Watch for warning signs. If the person is pregnant, has a known brain injury, or the seizure follows a head trauma, call for help even if it’s short. Also call if they’re breathing badly, have a fever, or you’re unsure about their medical history.
When the shaking stops, stay with the person. They’ll likely be confused, tired, or speech‑impaired for a few minutes. Speak gently, reassure them, and keep them comfortable.
Check breathing. If they’re still breathing normally, let them rest on the side until they’re fully alert. If they’re not breathing, start CPR if you’re trained.
Note the details. Write down how long the seizure lasted, any unusual movements, and whether the person was injured. This info helps doctors decide if medication needs adjusting.
Encourage hydration once they’re awake, but avoid giving food or drink until they can swallow safely. A glass of water after a few minutes is fine.
Arrange follow‑up care. If this is their first seizure or the episode was longer than usual, advise a medical check‑up within 24‑48 hours. For people with known epilepsy, a quick call to their neurologist can prevent future emergencies.
Remember, the most important thing is to stay calm, keep the person safe, and call for help when needed. By following these steps, you can reduce injury risk and give the person the best chance of a quick recovery.
Learn the crucial steps to safely assist someone during a tonic-clonic seizure, from recognizing the signs to providing rescue medication and post‑seizure care.
