Overview of Febrile Seizures

Febrile seizures are convulsions that occur in young children and infants due to a high fever typically associated with infections. These seizures are usually brief and non threatening but can cause significant concern for parents. They are the most common type of seizure in children typically affecting those between 6 months and 5 years old.

Types of Febrile Seizures

1. Simple Febrile Seizure: This is the most common form lasting less than 15 minutes and occurring once in 24 hours.

2. Complex Febrile Seizure: These are less common and last longer than 15 minutes, can occur more than once in 24 hours or have focal features (affecting one side of the body).

Symptoms of Febrile Seizures

Sudden stiffness and jerking movements of the body.

Loss of awareness and consciousness.

Uncontrollable eye movements or rolling eyes.

After the seizure the child may feel tired or disoriented for a short period.

Causes of Febrile Seizures

• Viral infections: Common colds, flu and respiratory infections often trigger a high fever.
• Bacterial infections: Such as ear infections or pneumonia can also cause a fever and lead to febrile seizures.
• Rare causes: Severe infections like meningitis or encephalitis may also lead to febrile seizures though they are much less common.

Complications in Febrile Seizures

• Post seizure confusion: After the seizure the child may experience confusion or extreme tiredness.
• Physical injury: Though rare, a child could accidentally hurt themselves during a seizure.
• Risk of epilepsy: In a small percentage of cases children may develop epilepsy, though this is not typical.

Risk Factors of Febrile Seizures

• Age: Most febrile seizures occur between 6 months and 5 years.
• Family history: Children whose parents or siblings have had febrile seizures are at a higher risk.
• Rapid fever spikes: Sudden increases in body temperature especially from an infection can trigger seizures.

Preventions of Febrile Seizures

• Fever control: Administering fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Cooling strategies: Using lukewarm baths or light clothing to help keep the body temperature stable.
• Vaccinations: Keeping immunisations up to date to avoid illnesses that can cause fever.