2g: Seizures (2026)

This lesson covers Seizures. The definition is provided in the lesson. Throughout this lesson, the signs and causes of seizures are also discussed. Providing care for an individual experiencing a seizure is discussed in detail. The differences in an absence or staring-type seizure and appropriate steps are explained. Seizure—a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain—or seizure-like activity is caused by epilepsy, low blood sugar, head injury or trauma, heart disease, ingestion of a toxin, or heart-related illness. Seizures result in abnormal body motion due to an irregular electrical discharge in the brain. Seizures can involve one or both sides of the body. Many seizures result in rhythmic jerking motions, but some seizures may result in a blank stare type of behavior. An individual having a seizure may fall to the ground, bite their tongue, and lose control of their bowel and bladder. Seizures are often accompanied by a brief period of unresponsiveness. When caring for an individual experiencing a seizure, help them to the ground if needed. Clear the area around them to prevent injury. Place a small pillow or towel under their head, and call 911. After the seizure is over, feel for the individual’s pulse. Position them on their side to reduce the chance of choking on vomit. (It is possible for them to throw up after a seizure.) Stay with the individual until help arrives. Do not attempt to restrain an individual having a seizure. Also, do not try to open their mouth or put anything in between their teeth. Someone experiencing an absence or staring-type seizure will have their eyes open but will not respond to you. These episodes are generally brief and not associated with jerking body motions or loss of consciousness. This type of event should be treated like any other seizure and be evaluated medically. Need to be certified or recertified in CPR, visit https://disquefoundation.org/cpr-first-aid-aed-certification-renewal/ Follow us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisqueFoundation Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisqueFNDN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savealifeinitiative/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/disquefoundation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/disque-foundation Website: https://disquefoundation.org/ To find out more about the Save a Life Initiative and the Disque foundation please visit our site or email us at [email protected] Together, let’s save lives.