A rapid rise in body temperature in children can lead to a seizure; this is called a febrile seizure (a seizure caused by fever). It usually happens between the ages of 6 months and 5 years and lasts a few minutes; if it lasts longer, or if the child's reduced level of consciousness lasts a long time, this can be a warning sign. What are the signs and symptoms of a seizure? Jerking (contracting) movements of the arms and legs, eyes rolling upwards, breathing problems, reduced level of consciousness, loss of bladder control, raised body temperature.
Why do seizures happen? Infection; febrile seizures after vaccination. When should you see a doctor? If your child has a seizure following a fever, or if the underlying illness that caused the fever does not improve within three days. What complications can seizures have? The most common complication is seizures happening again with fever.
What should you do to prevent seizures in children with fever? If your child is prone to seizures, when they have a fever, first control the fever with fever-reducing medicines (paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen) and by sponging the feet and legs with water. Use anticonvulsant medicines if your doctor prescribes them – oral or rectal diazepam.
What should you do if a child has a seizure?
Stay calm and do not panic, so that you can concentrate on caring for the child; make sure the child is breathing and has a good, adequate flow of air; never put pressure on your child, never try to stop their movements, and do not put anything in their mouth; lay the child on their side so that anything in their mouth can come out; keep any sharp objects away from the child.
Note how long the seizure lasts, and try to remember which parts of the body moved.
Outlook: febrile seizures are benign and leave no lasting effects, except when they last a long time, happen again, or the child has an abnormal neurological examination. Be sure to see your treating doctor one week after discharge.
Prepared by: Azam Tirafkan – Education Unit
Document code: NO-BR-41