Introduction
Febrile seizures are convulsions that occur in young children when they have a fever, usually as a result of a viral or bacterial infection. These seizures can be frightening for parents and caregivers, but they are generally harmless and do not cause long-term health problems. Understanding febrile seizures, their causes, and how to respond can help reduce anxiety and ensure the child’s safety.
Causes
Febrile seizures are triggered by a rapid rise in body temperature, most often in children between 6 months and 5 years of age. They are not caused by the severity of the fever itself, but rather by how quickly the temperature increases. Some children may be more prone to febrile seizures due to family history or genetic factors. Most febrile seizures occur during common childhood illnesses such as colds, ear infections, or flu.
Symptoms
A typical febrile seizure involves sudden loss of consciousness, muscle stiffening, and rhythmic jerking of the arms and legs. The child may roll their eyes, drool, or become unresponsive. Most febrile seizures last less than five minutes and are followed by a period of drowsiness or confusion. In rare cases, seizures may last longer or recur during the same illness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a detailed description of the seizure, the child’s medical history, and a physical examination. In most cases, no special tests are needed. However, if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, occurs in a child younger than 6 months or older than 5 years, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as difficulty breathing or persistent confusion), consult a doctor immediately for further evaluation.
Treatment Options
Most febrile seizures do not require medical treatment and resolve on their own. During a seizure, lay the child on their side in a safe place, remove any nearby objects, and do not put anything in their mouth. Stay calm and monitor the duration of the seizure. After the seizure, allow the child to rest and recover.
Simple measures such as treating the underlying fever with appropriate medication (paracetamol or ibuprofen) and keeping the child comfortable can help. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, or if the child does not recover quickly, seek emergency medical care.
If your child has frequent or complex febrile seizures, consult a doctor to discuss further evaluation and management.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent febrile seizures, but managing fevers promptly and monitoring children during illnesses can help reduce risk. Most children outgrow febrile seizures by age five.
Takeaway
Febrile seizures in children are usually harmless and do not lead to epilepsy or long-term problems. With understanding and proper response, most children recover quickly. If you are concerned about your child’s seizures or notice unusual symptoms, consult a doctor for guidance and reassurance.