A minor seizure or you may hear this type of seizure called an absence seizure, are more difficult to recognise than most fits. Someone having an absence seizure may not be aware of their surroundings and will have an altered state of consciousness or behaviour. The casualty may have unusual movements such as staring blankly, twitching movements of the face, eyes or limbs, plucking at their clothes or smacking their lips.
An absence seizure usually lasts a few seconds, which is why it can be difficult to recognise someone having this type of fit.
What to do:
- Make sure the casualty is safe. So, guide them away from any danger.
- Keep them calm and reassure them throughout the seizure.
- Stay with them until recovery is complete.
- Explain anything they may have missed.
Call 999/112 for an ambulance if:
- It is their first seizure
- The seizure lasts for over 5 minutes
- They have several seizures
- They have injuries
- You are worried at all
Do not:
- Restrain the casualty.
- Shout or grab hold of them quickly as this could upset them or make them respond aggressively.
