When helping someone during a seizure, put something in their mouth to prevent them from swallowing their tongue

General
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when helping someone during a seizure, put something in their mouth to prevent them from swallowing their tongue.

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Is it true that when helping someone during a seizure, you should put something in their mouth to prevent them from swallowing their tongue?

Answer: The statement that you should put something in a person’s mouth during a seizure to prevent them from swallowing their tongue is false and can actually be dangerous. Here’s why:

Misconception About Swallowing the Tongue

One common misconception about seizures is that a person might swallow their tongue. However, it is physically impossible to swallow your tongue. During a seizure, the muscles of the body, including those of the throat, may contract and relax in an uncoordinated manner, which has led to this myth.

Dangers of Putting Something in the Mouth

Placing any object in a person’s mouth during a seizure can be harmful for several reasons:

  1. Choking Hazard: The person could choke on the object, especially if it dislodges and obstructs their airway.
  2. Injury to Teeth and Jaw: Forcing an object into the mouth could cause damage to the person’s teeth and jaw.
  3. Infection Risk: Unsterilized objects can introduce bacteria or other pathogens, causing infections or complications.
  4. Bites and Cuts: There’s a significant risk for the person assisting to get bitten or injured. Seizure movements are typically uncontrollable, and the person with the seizure cannot prevent themselves from biting down hard.

Correct First Aid for Seizures

Here are the steps you should follow if someone is having a seizure:

  1. Stay Calm: Stay with the person and keep calm.
  2. Protect from Injury: Move them away from any potential dangers such as sharp objects, furniture, or hard surfaces they could hit during the seizure.
  3. Place on Their Side: If possible, gently turn the person onto their side. This helps keep the airway clear and allows any fluids to drain from their mouth.
  4. Cushion the Head: Place something soft under their head to protect it from injury.
  5. Loosen Tight Clothing: Loosen any clothing around their neck to help them breathe more easily.
  6. Time the Seizure: Note the length of the seizure. If it lasts more than 5 minutes, seek medical help immediately.
  7. Stay with Them: Stay with the person until they are fully conscious and able to communicate.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Seek emergency medical help if:

  • The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
  • Another seizure starts soon after the first one.
  • The person has difficulty breathing or does not regain consciousness after the seizure.
  • The person is injured during the seizure.
  • The person is experiencing their first seizure.

Final Answer: Never put anything in the mouth of someone who is having a seizure. Follow the correct first aid steps to protect and assist them safely.

By following these guidelines, you can provide the most effective and safe assistance to someone experiencing a seizure, ensuring their well-being and minimizing the risk of injury to both the person and yourself.