16 May 2025 | Select Doctor

Epilepsy, commonly known as Mirgi (मिर्गी ) in many regions, is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Recognizing and properly responding to an epileptic seizure can save lives and reduce the risk of injury. This blog will guide you on how to recognize and respond to an epileptic seizure (Mirgi) effectively, providing essential knowledge for caregivers, family members, and the general public.

What is Mirgi (Epilepsy)?

Mirgi, or epilepsy, causes sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain, leading to seizures. These seizures can vary in intensity and type, ranging from brief lapses in attention to violent convulsions. Understanding the signs and symptoms of seizures is crucial for timely and effective intervention.

How to Recognize an Epileptic Seizure (Mirgi)

Seizures manifest differently in individuals, but here are some common signs to watch for:

1. Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal Seizures)

These are the most recognizable types of epileptic seizures. Symptoms include:

• Sudden loss of consciousness
• Body stiffening (tonic phase)
• Violent muscle jerks or convulsions (clonic phase)
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Possible biting of the tongue
• Breathing difficulties or temporary cessation of breathing

2. Absence Seizures (Petit Mal Seizures)

These seizures are brief and often go unnoticed. Symptoms include:

• Sudden staring spells
• Brief loss of awareness lasting a few seconds
• Eye fluttering or subtle body movements
• No memory of the event afterward

3. Focal Seizures (Partial Seizures)

These affect one part of the brain and may involve:

• Unusual sensations (tingling, dizziness, or deja vu)
• Sudden emotional changes
• Muscle twitching or jerking in one limb or side of the body
• Altered consciousness or confusion

4. Auras

Some people experience auras—warning signs before a seizure. These can include strange smells, tastes, or visual changes.

What to Do When You See Someone Having a Seizure (Mirgi)

Knowing how to respond to an epileptic seizure (Mirgi) can prevent injuries and complications. Here are the essential steps:

1. Stay Calm and Time the Seizure

• Remain calm and reassure others around you.
• Note the time when the seizure starts. Most seizures last between 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

2. Protect from Injury

• Clear the area around the person to prevent injury from sharp or hard objects.
• Place something soft like a folded jacket under their head to protect from head injury.
• Do Not try to restrain their movements.

3. Do Not Put Anything in Their Mouth

• Never place objects or fingers inside their mouth. Contrary to myths, they cannot swallow their tongue.

4. Turn Them on Their Side

• Once convulsions stop, gently turn the person onto their side (recovery position) to keep their airway clear and prevent choking on saliva or vomit.

5. Monitor Breathing and Alertness

• Check their breathing. If breathing is irregular or stops, seek immediate medical help and perform CPR if trained.

6. Stay Until Fully Awake

• Stay with the person until they are fully alert and oriented. Seizures can be disorienting, so reassure them calmly.

7. When to Call Emergency Services

Seek urgent medical help if:

• The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
• Another seizure follows immediately
• The person does not regain consciousness after the seizure
• They are injured, pregnant, or have diabetes
• It is their first seizure

Why Early Recognition and Proper Response Matters

Understanding how to recognize and respond to an epileptic seizure (Mirgi) can save lives and reduce complications such as injuries, aspiration pneumonia, or status epilepticus—a life-threatening prolonged seizure condition.

Proper care during seizures also reduces fear and anxiety among patients and their loved ones. Awareness empowers communities to support epilepsy patients with dignity and compassion.

How Santosh Hospitals Supports Epilepsy Care

At Santosh Hospitals, we specialize in comprehensive epilepsy diagnosis and treatment. Our experienced neurologists provide personalized care, including:

• Advanced EEG and neuroimaging for accurate diagnosis
• Medication management tailored to individual needs
• Surgical options for drug-resistant epilepsy
• Counseling and support for patients and families

We are recognized as a leading center for neurological care in the Delhi NCR region, dedicated to improving the quality of life for those living with Mirgi.

Conclusion

Knowing how to recognize and respond to an epileptic seizure (Mirgi) is vital for ensuring safety and timely treatment. Educating yourself and others about seizure first aid can make a life-changing difference for patients.

If you or a loved one experience seizures, consult expert neurologists at Santosh Hospitals for comprehensive evaluation and treatment.