Febrile Seizure (Fever Caused Seizures)

    
A seizure caused by fever (simple febrile seizure), is the most common seizure of childhood, and has no connection with other forms of epilepsy. About 4% of all children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years have a generalized seizure when the young, sensitive brain experiences a rapid rise in temperature. This typically occurs with the onset of a viral illness. This sensitivity to temperature change is genetic and thus runs in families. These simple febrile seizures last between a few seconds and ten minutes, with a brief period of sleepiness after the convulsion ends. Simple febrile seizures do not cause any brain damage, nor do they cause any harm. Seizures that continue for over 15 minutes, or cause loss of heart rate or breathing, are a more serious form of epilepsy, and require treatment. Simple febrile seizures do not need any treatment, and stop by the age of 5 years. However, each child with a febrile seizure should be evaluated to diagnose the cause of the fever, which may or may not need treatment. 


Febrile seizures do not require medication to treat or prevent. Instead, fever management with Tylenol^® or Motrin^® is the course of action.  Click here to learn more about fever. Remember to pad your child’s surroundings during the seizure to prevent him from smacking himself against a sharp surface. Also, roll him onto his side, in case he vomits. Do not try to hold down his limbs from flailing, as this only worsens the spasms. Never put your finger or any other object into his mouth during a febrile seizure, as he may bite down and choke on it. It is normal to make gurgling sounds during the seizure. The child’s breathing is considered fine as long as his face is not blue. Observe your child and note the total time of the seizure. You can place a cool cloth on the forehead, neck, or wrists to help lower the fever. Remember; do not to leave a young child with fever unsupervised in the bathtub. 


Although it is terribly distressing to see your child having a febrile seizure, remain calm as it will be over quickly. Call the doctor on call or contact our office. Usually, the child is quiet and comfortable by the time a “911” crew arrives at the scene, and their attendance is unnecessary.