Febrile Convulsions
:Febrile Convulsions
Febrile convulsions, otherwise known as febrile seizures, are convulsions or seizures caused by a high fever in young children. Febrile Convulsions can affect any age group, but they’re most common in children between the ages of three months and five years. They can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, and they don’t usually cause any lasting damage. While febrile convulsions are scary for parents to witness, they don’t often signal a serious medical issue in the child’s future.
What Causes Febrile Convulsions?
Febrile convulsions are caused when a child’s body temperature rises quickly. This can be caused by an illness such as an infection, or it can be brought on by a reaction to a vaccination. It’s important to note that the convulsions themselves are not contagious and don’t indicate a serious underlying illness.
What Are the Symptoms of Febrile Convulsions?
The symptoms of febrile convulsions can vary, but they generally include:
- Stiffening of the body
- Breathing difficulties
- Loss of consciousness
- Jerking or twitching muscles
- Confusion or disorientation
- Drooling or frothing at the mouth
- Pale or flushed skin
What Should I Do If My Child Has a Febrile Convulsion?
It can be scary to see your child having a febrile convulsion, but it’s important to stay calm. If your child is having a febrile convulsion, take the following steps:
- Stay with your child, comforting them and speaking calmly until the seizure ends.
- Lay the child down on the floor to prevent further injuries.
- Loosen tight clothing and make sure the child’s head is turned to the side so saliva can drain out of their mouth.
- Check for other symptoms of a high fever, such as a rapid pulse or rapid breathing.
- Call a doctor as soon as possible to report the seizure, even if the episode has passed.
Conclusion
Febrile convulsions can be scary to witness, but in most cases, they don’t indicate a serious underlying condition and usually stop on their own. If you think your child is having a febrile convulsion, stay calm and take the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of your child. If you have any questions or concerns about febrile convulsions, speak to your doctor.