Febrile seizures in children can be scary for parents. These seizures happen when a child has a fever, often during common illnesses. Although febrile seizures are usually harmless, they can cause worry. In this blog, you will learn about febrile seizures, their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. We will also share tips for parents on how to manage febrile seizures in toddlers and young children.
What Are Febrile Seizures?
Febrile seizures are convulsions that happen in children with a fever. Usually, these seizures occur in children between 6 months and 5 years old. Most often, febrile seizures last only a few minutes. However, they can be frightening to watch. Unlike other seizures, febrile seizures are linked to a rise in body temperature, not to epilepsy or brain disorders. According to the CDC, about 2% to 5% of children will have at least one febrile seizure.
Common Symptoms of Febrile Seizures
Febrile seizures often start suddenly. For example, your child may be playing and then suddenly lose consciousness. The main symptoms include:
Usually, these symptoms last less than five minutes. After the seizure, your child may feel sleepy or confused. But most children recover quickly.
Causes and Risk Factors
Febrile seizures are triggered by a sudden rise in body temperature. Often, this happens during common infections, such as:
Some children are more likely to have febrile seizures. For instance, risk factors include:
However, febrile seizures are not caused by epilepsy. They are also not linked to long-term brain problems.
How Febrile Seizures Are Diagnosed
Doctors diagnose febrile seizures based on your child’s symptoms and medical history. Usually, no special tests are needed. However, in some cases, doctors may order tests to rule out other causes. These may include:
Most children do not need brain scans or long-term testing. Still, your doctor will decide what is best for your child.
Treatment Options for Febrile Seizures
Most febrile seizures stop on their own within a few minutes. Therefore, treatment during the seizure is usually not needed. However, you should:
After the seizure, let your child rest. If the seizure lasts more than five minutes, seek medical help right away. Doctors may give medicine to stop long seizures. In most cases, children do not need daily seizure medicine.
Home Care and When to Seek Medical Help
After a febrile seizure, your child may feel tired. You can help by:
However, you should call your doctor or seek emergency care if:
Always trust your instincts. If you are worried, it is best to get medical advice.
Prevention Tips for Parents
“While you cannot always prevent febrile seizures, you can lower the risk by:
Even though febrile seizures are scary, most children outgrow them by age five. They do not cause long-term problems in most cases.
Consult a pediatrician at SHRI KRISHNA CLINIC for personalized advice if your child experiences febrile seizures.”
