Witnessing a baby or child having an epileptic seizure can be distressing, but knowing how to respond can make a significant difference.
Seizures in children are more common than many realise, affecting approximately 1 in 200 youngsters in the UK.
When a seizure occurs, prompt and appropriate first aid is crucial to ensure the child's safety and minimise potential complications.
During a seizure, a child may collapse and experience sudden jerking movements, potentially accompanied by froth around the mouth.
The priority is to keep the child safe by protecting their head with a blanket or clothing, without restraining their movements. Attempting to restrain them could lead to injury for both the child and the caregiver.
After the seizure subsides, it's essential to place the child in the recovery position to aid breathing.
If it's the child's first seizure or if it lasts longer than five minutes, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial.
Epileptic seizures in babies and children can manifest in various ways, with distinct triggers and symptoms. Recognising these factors is crucial for proper care and management.
Epileptic seizures in young ones are broadly categorised into two main types: focal and generalised.
Focal seizures affect a specific area of the brain, while generalised seizures involve both hemispheres.
Focal seizures may cause unusual movements in one part of the body or changes in awareness. Generalised seizures can lead to full-body convulsions or brief lapses in consciousness.
Some common seizure types in children include:
Several factors can provoke seizures in babies and children. Identifying these triggers is essential for managing the condition effectively.
Common triggers include:
It's important to note that febrile seizures are not epilepsy but can occur in young children with high temperatures.
Recognising seizure symptoms is vital for prompt intervention. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of seizure and the affected brain area.
Common symptoms include:
In babies, seizures might appear as subtle eye movements, lip smacking, or rhythmic jerking of limbs. Infants may also experience sudden stiffening or limpness.
It's crucial to observe and document seizure symptoms to aid in diagnosis and treatment. If unsure, capturing a video of the episode can be helpful for medical professionals.
Quick action is crucial when a baby or child experiences an epileptic seizure. Proper safety measures and careful monitoring of seizure duration are essential for providing effective first aid.
When a child collapses and starts making sudden jerking movements, act swiftly to ensure their safety. Remove any nearby objects that could cause injury.
Gently place a soft item, such as a folded jumper or blanket, under their head for protection.
Do not attempt to restrain the child or move them unless they're in immediate danger. Loosen any tight clothing around their neck to aid breathing.
If possible, turn them onto their side to prevent choking on saliva or vomit.
Never put anything in the child's mouth, including fingers, as this can cause harm. Instead, clear the area around them to prevent injury from flailing limbs.
Start timing the seizure as soon as it begins. Most seizures last between 2-3 minutes and stop on their own.
If the seizure continues for more than 5 minutes, call 999 or 112 for emergency assistance.
During the seizure, stay calm and reassure others around you. If possible, ask someone to record a video of the seizure on a mobile phone, as this can aid medical professionals in diagnosis later.
After the seizure ends, check the child's breathing. If they're not breathing normally, begin CPR immediately. If breathing is normal, place them in the recovery position and stay with them until they're fully alert.
After a seizure, proper care is crucial for the child's safety and recovery. Placing the child in the correct position, monitoring their vital signs, and assessing the need for emergency services are key steps to ensure their wellbeing.
Once the seizure has ended, gently turn the child onto their side in the recovery position. This helps maintain an open airway and prevents choking if they vomit.
Support their head and neck, ensuring their face is slightly downward to allow any fluids to drain.
Remove any tight clothing around their neck to aid breathing. Place a soft cushion or folded jacket under their head for comfort.
Keep the child warm by covering them with a blanket, but avoid overheating.
Stay with the child and speak to them calmly. They may be confused or disoriented, so reassure them and explain what happened.
Allow them to rest if they feel tired, but don't force sleep.
Closely observe the child's breathing and colour. If their breathing seems laboured or they appear bluish, seek immediate medical attention.
Check their pulse to ensure it's regular and within a normal range for their age.
Keep track of the seizure duration and any recurring episodes. Note the time the seizure started and ended, as well as any specific movements or behaviours during the event. This information is valuable for medical professionals.
Look for signs of injury that may have occurred during the seizure, such as bumps, cuts, or bruises. Apply first aid as needed, but avoid moving the child unnecessarily if you suspect a head or neck injury.
Call 999 or 112 for an ambulance if:
Try to capture a video of the seizure if possible, as this can aid in diagnosis. If emergency services aren't required, contact the child's GP or epilepsy specialist for guidance on further care and treatment adjustments.
Remember to stay calm and reassure the child and any onlookers. Your composed demeanour can help reduce anxiety and create a more supportive environment for the child's recovery.
Prompt medical attention is crucial when a child experiences a prolonged or severe seizure. Recognising when professional help is needed and providing accurate information to emergency services can significantly impact the child's care and recovery.
Call 999 or 112 for an ambulance if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or if it's the child's first seizure.
Emergency services should also be contacted if the child has difficulty breathing, turns blue, or if multiple seizures occur without full recovery in between.
If the child has a known seizure disorder but the seizure is different from their usual type, seeking immediate medical help is advisable.
Additionally, if the seizure occurs in water or results from a head injury, prompt professional intervention is necessary.
When speaking with emergency services, provide clear and concise information:
If possible, capture a video of the seizure on a mobile phone. This can aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Time the seizure's duration accurately, as this information is vital for medical professionals.
After the immediate crisis, ongoing medical support is essential. The child may need to undergo tests to determine the cause of the seizure. These might include:
Healthcare providers may prescribe anti-epileptic medications or adjust existing treatments.
It's crucial to follow up with a paediatrician or neurologist to discuss the seizure event and develop a comprehensive management plan.
Parents and caregivers should maintain a seizure diary, noting frequency, duration, and potential triggers. This information helps medical professionals make informed decisions about treatment and monitor the child's condition effectively.
Prevention strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of future seizures in babies and children with epilepsy. These approaches focus on identifying triggers, adhering to medication regimens, and maintaining regular medical oversight.
Recognising and avoiding seizure triggers is crucial for prevention.
Common triggers include:
Parents should keep a seizure diary to track potential triggers. This can help identify patterns and inform management strategies.
Establishing consistent routines for sleep, meals, and activities can help reduce stress and maintain stability. For photosensitive epilepsy, limiting screen time and using blue light filters on devices may be beneficial.
Consistent adherence to prescribed anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) is essential for seizure control.
Parents should:
It's crucial to maintain proper medication storage and check expiry dates regularly. If a child struggles with taking pills, discuss alternative formulations with their healthcare provider.
Ongoing medical supervision is vital for managing epilepsy effectively.
Regular check-ups allow doctors to:
Paediatric first aid training can be valuable for parents and caregivers. This equips them to handle seizures confidently and provide appropriate care.
Parents should keep detailed records of seizure frequency, duration, and characteristics to share with healthcare providers. This information helps in tailoring treatment plans and identifying trends in seizure activity.
Providing support and education is crucial for children with epilepsy and their families. Proper resources and networks can empower those affected to manage the condition effectively and lead fulfilling lives.
Children with epilepsy benefit from age-appropriate education about their condition.
Healthcare professionals can help explain epilepsy in simple terms, using visual aids and child-friendly materials.
Parents should encourage open discussions and answer questions honestly.
Key topics to cover include:
As children grow, information should be updated to match their understanding. Encourage them to take an active role in managing their condition, fostering independence and confidence.
Epilepsy affects the whole family. Support networks provide valuable emotional and practical assistance.
Local epilepsy organisations often offer support groups where families can share experiences and coping strategies.
Online forums and social media groups can connect caregivers across distances. These platforms allow for:
Respite care services can provide much-needed breaks for primary caregivers, helping to prevent burnout and maintain family well-being.
A wealth of educational resources exists for families affected by epilepsy. Reputable organisations offer:
• Comprehensive websites with factsheets and videos
• Workshops and webinars on epilepsy management
• First aid training for seizure response
Schools play a vital role in supporting children with epilepsy. Teachers and staff should receive training on:
• Recognising different types of seizures
• Administering emergency medication
• Creating inclusive classroom environments
Epilepsy action plans, developed with healthcare providers, ensure all caregivers know how to respond during a seizure. Regular updates to these plans are essential as the child's condition or treatment changes.
Proper first aid for children experiencing seizures is crucial for their safety and well-being. Understanding the correct steps to take in various situations can make a significant difference in managing these episodes effectively.
In a school setting, it's essential to make the child safe and prevent injury.
Clear the area around them of any hazards and protect their head with a soft object like a jumper or blanket.
Do not restrain the child or try to stop their movements.
Time the seizure and call for emergency medical help if it lasts longer than five minutes.
After the seizure ends, place the child in the recovery position.
This involves laying them on their side with their head tilted back to keep the airway open.
Stay with the child and reassure them as they may feel confused or frightened.
Check for any injuries that may have occurred during the seizure.
Common triggers for seizures in children include high fever, lack of sleep, stress, and flashing lights. Some children may be sensitive to certain foods or medications.
Identifying and avoiding these triggers can help reduce the frequency of seizures in some cases.
For febrile seizures, it's crucial to cool the child down.
Remove outer clothing and ensure fresh air flow in the room.
Do not put the child in a cold bath, as this can cause the body temperature to drop too quickly.
Once the seizure is over, help them rest on their side with their head tilted back.
During an epileptic fit, ensure the child's safety by removing nearby objects.
Do not put anything in their mouth or try to restrain them.
Time the seizure and call for emergency help if it lasts longer than five minutes or if the child has trouble breathing.
Allow the child to rest in a quiet, comfortable place.
Offer reassurance and stay with them until they have fully recovered.
Monitor their breathing and overall condition.
If there are any signs of distress or if the seizure recurs, seek medical attention promptly.
