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Last Updated on November 17, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta
A fever seizure or febrile seizure refers to an event of infancy or childhood, usually occurring below the age of 5 years, associated with fever but with no evidence of any CNS infection or a specific cause. Please keep in mind that seizures with fever in children who have previously had an afebrile seizure are not included in this definition since the condition has the potential to cause a major medical emergency. This article discusses the potential causes, severity levels, preventative measures, and appropriate management of fever-induced seizures.
What exactly causes fever or febrile seizures?
Typically, a higher-than-normal body temperature cause fever or febrile seizures. A child experiencing febrile seizures usually shakes and loses consciousness. The child may also become stiff or twitch in only one area of the body. Viral infections, bacterial infections, and vaccinations are common causes of febrile seizures, young children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, as well as those with a family history of seizures, are usually at a higher risk.
Are febrile seizures fatal?
Please note that while these convulsions may be self-limiting, you should always consult your doctor for proper management. Fever seizures, which affect 2% to 5% of children, are the most common type of childhood seizures. They are usually considered harmless. However, for most parents, a febrile seizure is a terrifying event, and one of the most common reasons for visits to the emergency room. As a result, the type of seizures largely determines the severity of the condition.
Seizures caused by fever can be simple or complex. Simple seizures are typically brief generalized-seizures that resolve within fifteen minutes and do not reoccur within 24 hours. Furthermore, they are not associated with any acute nervous system disease or previous afebrile seizures. Whereas a “complex” seizure is one that lasts more than 15 minutes, occurs more than once in 24 hours, and is usually on one side of the child’s body.
How can febrile seizures be avoided?
You cannot prevent fever induced seizures by the common measures taken to reduce body temperature. Parents can learn about the risks of seizure and the benigness of the condition. You should take measures to ensure that child does not get injured during a seizure.
How can fever-induced seizures be managed?
Seizures caused by fever necessitate both home care and medical attention. Despite the fact that it is a self-limiting condition, the situation requires immediate attention. When a convulsion begins, place the child on a soft, flat surface where they will not fall. Seizures can always be timed. Any clothing that is too tight should be loosened, and any hard or sharp object should be removed. Don’t restrain or interfere with your child’s movements, and don’t put anything in their mouth.
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