Most partial seizures last from a few seconds to a few minutes. During that time, those around you should help keep you safe. What those witnessing the seizure should do is listed below.

Seek medical attention right away if you:

• Are hurt during the seizure

• Begin choking

• Have a seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes

• Have multiple seizures in a row

• Don't fully regain consciousness after the seizure is over

Otherwise, they should do the following:

• Move any hard or sharp objects away from you.

• Turn you on your left side if you seem unconscious.

• Talk to you afterward to relieve your confusion.

• Note how long the seizure lasted. Note what you were doing before, during, and after the seizure.

It is important that they don't do the following:

• Don't try to stop any jerking or twisting.

• Don't put anything in the mouth.

• Don't try to hold the tongue.

It may seem awkward to talk to others about seizures. But telling family, friends, and coworkers about your seizures can help them react to a seizure in a way that will help—and not hurt—you. Describe to them what happens before, during, and after you have a seizure. Explain what they should and should not do.