Seizures are a scary experience for both children and parents. When your child has a seizure, it can be confusing and terrifying.

Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and can manifest in many ways, including shaking, convulsions, staring spells and loss of consciousness. As a parent, it is important to know what to do if your child has a seizure, and how to provide the best care possible. Here are some steps to take when your child has a seizure:.

Stay Calm and Keep Your Child Safe

The most important thing to do during a seizure is to stay calm. Panicking will only make things worse. Remember that most seizures are not life-threatening and will subside on their own in a few minutes.

Your job is to keep your child safe until the seizure is over.

First, move your child away from anything that could cause injury, such as sharp corners or objects, and make sure their head is cushioned. If your child is on a bed, remove any pillows or blankets.

Loosen any clothing that might be tight around their neck or chest that could make it hard to breathe. Do not try to hold your child down or restrain them in any way. This will not stop the seizure and may even cause injury.

Time the Seizure

Seizures typically last between 30 seconds and two minutes, although they can last longer. Try to time the duration of the seizure using a watch or clock.

This information will be helpful for your child’s doctor in determining the type of seizure your child is experiencing.

Monitor Your Child’s Breathing and Heart Rate

During a seizure, your child’s breathing and heart rate may temporarily stop or become irregular. After the seizure has ended, check to make sure your child is breathing normally.

If your child isn’t breathing, administer CPR and call 911 immediately.

Check for Injuries

After the seizure, carefully check your child for any signs of injury, such as bruising, bleeding or broken bones. If your child has been injured, seek medical attention immediately.

Stay with Your Child Until They Fully Recover

After the seizure, your child may be sleepy, confused or disoriented. Stay with your child until they fully recover, and keep a close eye on them. Make sure they are hydrated and offer water or other fluids.

Your child may also be hungry after the seizure, so offer them a light snack if they feel up to it.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Most seizures are not a medical emergency, but there are some cases where you should seek medical attention immediately.

If your child is experiencing seizures lasting longer than five minutes, is having multiple seizures in a row, is having trouble breathing or has an injury from the seizure, call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. If this is your child’s first seizure, it’s important to see your child’s doctor to determine the cause and rule out any underlying medical conditions.

How to Help Your Child Manage Seizures

Seizures can be managed with medication, and in some cases, surgery. It’s important to work with your child’s doctor to develop a treatment plan that works best for your child.

Other things you can do to help your child manage their seizures include:.

Maintain a consistent routine, with regular sleep and meal times
Reduce stress as much as possible
Avoid triggers that can cause seizures, such as flickering lights or loud noises
Encourage your child to take their medication as prescribed
Teach your child about their condition and how to explain it to others

Conclusion

Having a child with seizures can be frightening, but with proper care and management, your child can live a full and active life. Remember to stay calm and keep your child safe during a seizure, and seek medical attention if necessary.

Work with your child’s doctor to develop a treatment plan that works best for your child, and help your child manage their seizures by maintaining a consistent routine, reducing stress and avoiding triggers. With your love and support, your child can thrive.