What to Do in the Event of a Seizure in the Water
Some people experience seizures that are characterized by a strange sensation while remaining fully conscious. If this type of seizure occurs in the water, it does not require emergency action. However, the person may feel tired afterward or have a headache, so help him/her get out of the water.
Other seizures may involve an alteration in the person's level of consciousness. The person experiencing the seizure may seem to be in a trance and make repeated aimless movements for a minute or two. Alternatively, he/she may lose consciousness and stare or convulse.
If someone has a seizure in the water and their level of consciousness has altered in any way, follow the recommended procedure outlined below.
- Stay with the athlete.
- Try to stay clam. You can offer valuable assistance.
- You may need extra assistance, so call out for help.
- Ensure that the athlete’s head and face stay above the water.
- Do not place anything in his/her mouth or restrict movement.
- Guide him/her away from the sides of the pool to avoid injury.
- Once abnormal movement has stopped, move the athlete out of the water and lay the athlete on his/her side to recover.
- Check the athlete’s airway and pulse and commence resuscitation if needed.
- Stay with the athlete until athlete has fully recovered.
- Please note that even if the breathing seems to have returned to normal and the athlete appears to have recovered, water may still have entered the lungs.
- It is recommended that anyone who has experienced a seizure and an alteration of consciousness while in the water needs to receive a medical checkup immediately.
- Call an ambulance.
