A seizure happens when the brain cells send electrical discharges that can cause the arms and legs to jerk or twitch, and the eyes to stare or blink. Usually a child is sleepy or confused after having a seizure.

What Should I Do If My Child Has A Seizure?

• Stay Calm!
• Do not put anything in your child's mouth.
• Place your child on his/her side to help drain secretions.
• Loosen clothing.
• Don't try to hold your child still. Move objects away from your child so he/she does not get hurt.
• Support your child's head with a pillow or soft object.
• Do not try to give your child any medicine during a seizure. It may cause him/her to choke.
• Try to observe what happens during the seizure, which arm or leg is involved, and how long the seizure lasts. This may help your doctor decide how to treat the seizure.
  

CALL FOR HELP IF:

• Your child has trouble breathing or looks blue.
• The seizure is lasting longer than 5 minutes.
• You cannot wake your child 30 minutes after the seizure.

What to Do After the Seizure:

Your child may be sleepy and should be allowed to rest. Continue to give any medications prescribed for the seizure disorder. Do not give extra medicine or change the dosage without calling the doctor. Make sure you do not run out of medicine. It needs to be given as scheduled.

Follow up with your regular doctor whenever a seizure occurs. This can be a good time to review your child's medical care and make changes if necessary. Your child may want to participate in sports or activities such as bicycle riding, swimming or driving a car or motorcycle. Discuss this with your doctor before you allow your child to participate in them.