Health Tip: If Your Child Has a Seizure

If your child is having a seizure, it's important to prevent injury and keep her safe from harm.

The Children's Hospital Boston recommends that you:

* Stay calm, and don't leave the child unattended during the seizure.
* Gently lie the child on the floor, on her side, with a soft object under her head. Try to keep her head from falling backward.
* Do not allow the child to lie on her back, as she could choke if she vomits.
* Loosen any tight or restrictive clothing.
* Move any hard objects, such as tables and chairs, out of the way.

Once the seizure ends, contact your child's doctor, who may want to know:

* Where did the seizure begin (commonly, the hands, arms, legs, or eyes)?
* Did the seizure stay in one area of the body or did it travel to other parts?
* How long did the seizure last?
* Were there any factors that seemed to cause or trigger the seizure?