How to spot a seizure and help safely: Doctor explains clear, quick steps
Seizures strike suddenly, and they often shock everyone nearby. Still, with the right actions, anyone can protect a person until medical help arrives. Health experts say that calm, quick thinking matters most in those tense moments. On December 4, anesthesiologist and pain specialist Dr Kunal Sood shared a simple guide to recognising seizures and helping someone through one. His message was direct: seizures look scary, but steady support keeps the person safe.
To start, seizures happen when abnormal electrical activity disrupts the brain. This sudden surge affects awareness, movement and behaviour. According to Dr Sood, the signs vary. Sometimes the whole body shakes. Sometimes the person twitches. Sometimes they stare blankly or lose consciousness for a few seconds. Because the symptoms appear without warning, bystanders often panic. Yet the doctor stresses that quick, informed action can prevent injuries.
Dr Sood also highlights why seizures feel overwhelming to watch. Someone may collapse, jerk rapidly or go still before shaking starts. These moments confuse people, especially when they don’t understand what is happening. However, the doctor urges everyone to focus on safety rather than fear. First aid for seizures does not require medical training—only awareness and calm steps.
First, stay with the person. This ensures you can respond quickly if anything changes.
Next, remove objects nearby. This prevents injury during uncontrolled movements.
Then, turn the person onto their side. This keeps the airway clear and allows saliva to drain.
After that, support the head. A soft item under the head protects it from hitting the ground.
Finally, time the seizure. Duration helps doctors judge its severity.
Dr Sood notes that most seizures end naturally within one or two minutes. That brief window allows enough time to protect the person without interfering. However, he warns that a seizure lasting longer than five minutes becomes a medical emergency. If that happens—or if the person has repeated seizures—you should call emergency services immediately.
Some people with chronic seizure disorders carry rescue medications. These drugs can stop or shorten a seizure, but Dr Sood advises giving them only if a doctor has taught you how and only if the medicine is close by. Wrong use can delay proper treatment.
As Dr Sood explains, staying calm becomes the most powerful tool in such moments. You cannot stop a seizure through force. You cannot restrain the person. You cannot put anything in their mouth, because that causes harm. Instead, you protect their space, watch the clock and wait for the shaking to stop.
Seizures can frighten even experienced caregivers. Yet, with clear steps and steady action, anyone can support someone safely. Dr Sood’s guidance offers a simple truth: knowledge reduces fear, and preparedness can save lives.
