First Aid for Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic disease, usually of unknown cause, usually characterized by repeated convulsions—“grand mal” seizures. The victim may be able to lie down quickly, or the family may be able to tell that an attack is beginning by the sudden paleness of his face or by his behavior. The usefulness of mouth-to-nose breathing in providing artificial ventilation for victims of grand mal seizures is effective.

Because of the high incidence of expiratory obstruction created by the soft palate, mouth-to-nose ventilation is the only effective way in which victims with such obstruction can be ventilated. The mouth-to-nose technique must be accomplished in such a way that the mouth is left open for exhalation. If the teeth cannot be separated, the lips should be parted to permit passive exhalation. Much research has been carried out on epilepsy in recent years, and excellent preventive treatment is available; for this reason, physicians should determine the type and cause of every episode of convulsion.

A milder form of epilepsy occurs without convulsions. There may be only brief twitching of muscles, “petit mal” seizures, and momentary loss of contact with the surroundings. The victim may be seen staring fixedly at an object or off into the distance. This type of disturbance is less common than that which produces grand mal seizures.

First Aid for Epilepsy

First aid for epilepsy is the same as for other convulsions, with primary effort being made to prevent the victim from hurting himself.

1. Push away nearby objects.
2. Do not force a blunt object between the victim’s teeth. (If the victim’s mouth is open, you might place a soft object such as a rolled handkerchief between his side teeth.)
3. When jerking is over, loosen the clothing around his neck.
4. Keep him lying down.
5. Keep his airway open.
6. Prevent his breathing of vomit into the lungs by turning his head to one side or by having him lie on his stomach.
7. If breathing stops, give artificial respiration.
8. After the seizure, allow the victim to sleep or rest.
9. If convulsions occur again, get medical help.

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