Seizures are more common in some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

A seizure happens when there is a temporary change in the brain’s electrical activity. Epilepsy is a condition in which a person has a continuing tendency to have seizures.

Not every seizure looks the same.

A person may fall, become stiff, shake, or lose awareness. Other seizures may be less obvious. The person may stare, stop responding, make repeated movements, suddenly become confused, or behave differently for a brief time.

Families and caregivers often recognize subtle changes that others may miss.

What should you do during a seizure?

Stay: with the person and remain calm. Note the time the seizure begins.
Safe: Keep the person safe. Move hard or sharp objects away and place something soft beneath the head.
Side: Turn the person gently onto their side when possible so breathing is easier.

• Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
• Do not hold the person down, and never place anything in the person’s mouth.

Wait until the person is fully awake before offering food, water, or medication by mouth.

After the seizure, allow time to rest and provide calm reassurance. The person may be tired, confused, frightened, or have a headache.

When is emergency help needed? 

Call local emergency medical services when:

• The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
• Another seizure begins before the person has recovered.
• The person has difficulty breathing or does not awaken as expected.
• The seizure causes a serious injury or occurs in water.
• It is the person’s first known seizure.
• The person’s individualized seizure plan tells you to seek emergency help.

Families should ask the healthcare provider for a written seizure action plan. Some people may also be prescribed a rescue medicine for prolonged or repeated seizures. Everyone who supports the person should know where the plan and medicine are kept and how to follow the instructions.

Keep a record of what happened before, during, and after each suspected seizure. Include the time, how long it lasted, what the
person’s body and eyes did, whether awareness changed, and how long recovery took. A short video may help the clinician
understand what happened, but only record when the person is already safe.

With an accurate diagnosis, an individualized treatment plan, and informed family support, many people with epilepsy can
participate fully in family, school, work, and community life.

References and Resources
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: First Aid for Seizures https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/first-aid-for-seizures/index.html
2. Epilepsy Foundation: Seizure First Aid Resources https://www.epilepsy.com/recognition/first-aid-resource