(HealthDayNews) -- Children have seizures for reasons ranging from high fevers to underlying medical conditions.
While they can be terrifying, seizures usually last only a few minutes, according to The Nemours Foundation.
If your child has a seizure, here's what to do:
- Gently place your child on the floor and remove any nearby objects.
- Loosen clothing around his or her head or neck.
- Don't try to prevent the shaking.
- Don't put anything in your child's mouth.
- Roll your child onto his side. If he vomits, keep him on his side and clear his mouth out with your finger.
- Don't give your child anything to drink until he is fully alert.
- Call the doctor immediately.
Seek emergency medical care if your child:
- Has a seizure lasting more than five minutes.
- Has difficulty breathing.
- Turns a bluish color on the lips, tongue, or face.
- Falls or hits his or her head during a seizure.