Seizures can be frightening and even dangerous for those affected and for their family members. Knowing what to do in the event of a seizure can relieve some of the anxiety associated with these incidents. In some cases, a trip to your Sugar Land emergency care facility can be a solid investment in greater peace of mind for your family. Here are some of the most important points to keep in mind before calling a Sugar Land emergency clinic if you or someone you love experiences a seizure.
Not All Seizures Are Caused by Epilepsy
While many seizures can be attributed to epilepsy, seizures can affect anyone at any time. Seizures may be caused by a number of factors, including the following:
- Sleep deprivation
- Anxiety
- Low blood sugar
- Alcohol or drug use
- Brain injuries
- Strokes or tumors
- High fever, especially in young children
Not all seizures are the same. While some involve shaking of the body and loss of consciousness, other seizures may involve strange smells, sounds, or tingling feelings in the extremities. In some cases, the individual who experienced the seizure may not be aware of the incident at all.
What Should I Do if Someone I Know Has a Seizure?
Protecting the individual from harm during a seizure is the single most important step during these events. This may involve placing a pillow under the head, moving furniture away, and turning the person to the side to prevent choking. Most seizures last less than a minute and a half, so it is important that you remain with the person having the seizure until it subsides.
When Should I Head to the Emergency Room?
Most medical professionals recommend a trip to your local Sugar Land emergency care clinic if the patient is elderly, pregnant, or very young. Patients with diabetes, high fevers, severe headaches, or exposure to toxic materials may also require immediate emergency treatment to ensure that they receive the best treatment possible for their medical conditions. You should also seek emergency treatment if you or your family member experiences more than one seizure during a 24-hour period or has a seizure lasting more than five minutes. These symptoms may indicate a much more serious condition.
At St. Michael’s Emergency Room, we offer Sugar Land emergency services without the extended wait times often involved in other emergency room visits. Because we operate independently from local hospitals, we can see our patients faster and can refer to the hospital of your choice if necessary. To learn more about our full lineup of emergency services for your family, call us today at 281-980-4357. St. Michael’s Emergency Room is here to serve you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to ensure the best care for you and your family.