Most of the time, no first aid is necessary for a petit mal seizure. If it's the first time you've noticed a seizure, however, contact your doctor.

Also, seek medical advice when any of the following occur:

• The seizure lasts more than two to three minutes.

• Recovery from the seizure is slow.

• A second seizure follows immediately.

• The person having the seizure is pregnant.

• This is a new type of seizure.

If you see someone having a seizure that produces convulsions or a loss of consciousness, call for medical help immediately and then follow these tips:

• Gently roll the person onto one side and put something soft under his or her head.

• Loosen tight neckwear.

• Don't put anything in the mouth — the tongue can't be swallowed.

• Don't try to restrain the person.

• Look for a medical alert bracelet, which may indicate an emergency contact person and other information.