Febrile seizures

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Febrile seizures are convulsions brought on by a fever in infants or small children. During a febrile seizure, a child often loses consciousness and shakes, moving limbs on both sides of the body. Less commonly, the child becomes rigid or has twitches in only a portion of the body, such as an arm or a leg, or on the right or the left side only. Most febrile seizures last a minute or two, although some can be as brief as a few seconds while others last for more than 15 minutes.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The cause of febrile seizures is fever in small children or infants. The seizures occur in response to a spike in body temperature, often from an infection. Infections that increase body temperature can come from any source, such as the common cold, ear infections, or a viral or bacterial illness.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of febrile seizures include:

  • High fever
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Shaking, often on both sides of the body
  • Becoming rigid or having twitches in only a portion of the body

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Febrile seizures are diagnosed by a healthcare provider. The provider will ask about the child's medical history and symptoms, and will perform a physical examination. The provider may also order tests, such as blood tests or a lumbar puncture, to check for infections.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for febrile seizures focuses on bringing down the child's fever. This can be done with fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If the child has an infection, the provider may also prescribe antibiotics.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of febrile seizures involves reducing the child's fever as soon as it begins. This can be done with fever-reducing medications and by keeping the child cool.

See also[edit | edit source]

Febrile seizures Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD