First Aid for Seizures in Water

 

lake-rainbow-water

For many people, the scariest aspect of epilepsy is not knowing when or where a seizure will occur. In certain situations, a loss of consciousness is especially dangerous and emergency care must go beyond the routine procedures. A seizure in water is one of these life-threatening situations.

  • Support the person in the water with the head tilted so the face and head stay above the surface.
  • Remove the person from the water as quickly as possible.
  • Check to see whether the person is breathing. If not, begin CPR immediately.
  • Call an ambulance. Even if the person appears to be fully recovered, he or she should have a full medical checkup. Inhaling water can cause lung or heart damage.

Authored By:

Joseph I. Sirven MD
Steven C. Schachter MD and Patricia O. Shafer RN, MN

on Monday, October 21, 2013

Reviewed By:

Epilepsy Foundation Communications

on Friday, January 03, 2020

Resources

Epilepsy Centers

Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options.

>

Epilepsy Medication

Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor.

>

Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline

Call our Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline and talk with an epilepsy information specialist or submit a question online.

>

Tools & Resources

Get information, tips, and more to help you manage your epilepsy.

>

Sign Up for Seizure Trainings

The Epilepsy Learning Portal is your one-stop shop to access online and on-demand trainings about epilepsy and seizures. School personnel, people with epilepsy, and their caregivers can learn more about epilepsy, seizures, and seizure first aid.