A casualty experiencing an epileptic seizure, may display some of the following signs and symptoms before fitting and becoming very sleepy:
RECOGNITION of the onset of an epileptic seizure may be by:
Them experiencing a strange taste in their mouth, a smell or a peculiar feeling
They may sit or lie down
They may have moments of ‘absenteeism’ or look like they are day-dreaming
SEIZURE may begin and continue for 30 seconds to hours (average 2 minutes) by:
Them letting out a cry and falling to the floor
Their back arching and their lips going blue, limbs making sudden, jerky movements
Eyes rolling, teeth clenching, saliva drooling, lost bladder control, loud breathing (like snoring)
RECOVERY: The casualty may not be fully alert, may be very tired and may be unaware of their actions
TREATMENT:
Protect their head and remove any harmful obstacles whilst they have their seizure
DO NOT put anything in or near their mouth
Allow them to sleep for as long as needed after their seizure has finished
Dial 999 for an ambulance if they become unconscious, it is their first seizure, it lasts 3 minutes+
