Fever-Induced (Febrile) Seizures
What is a fever seizure in an infant or toddler?
As a parent or caregiver it is very scary. Management is important.
A febrile (fever-induced) seizure is defined as a seizure that typically occurs in a child 6 months to 5 years old with a fever greater than 100.4ºF (38ºC). Often, it is precipitated by a low temperature followed by a rapid rise in fever, as well as a family history of seizures. A “simple” febrile seizure lasts a short amount of time (less than 1 minute) and does not usually happen again in the next 24 hour period.
What does a febrile seizure look like?
A febrile seizure usually happens during the first few hours of a fever. The child may look confused for a few moments, then stiffen and twitch, often accompanied by eye rolling. This is followed by a short period of unresponsiveness and irregular breathing.
Most febrile seizures last less than 1 minute. Unlike other types of seizures, there is no “postictal” period when the child is dazed or unresponsive; after a simple febrile seizure, the child returns to normal. They may cry or be fussy, but usually that is because they are reacting to the fear they perceive from their parents or caregivers.
During the seizure: immediate care
Here are some important things to do if you suspect your child is having a febrile seizure:
1. Call your pediatrician.
2. Position the child away from possible injury, lying flat on the bed or the floor.
3. Do not put anything inside the child’s mouth—the fear that a child will swallow their tongue is not valid.
4. Turn the child’s head to the side in case the child vomits.
5. If the seizure persists past 5 minutes, call 911.
How are febrile seizures treated?
The AAP has determined that a child must be examined right away to determine the cause of the fever. This is important to determine and treat the source of the fever.
Most often, doctors do not recommend treatment of a simple febrile seizure with preventive medicines. However, if the seizures were prolonged or repeated then there would likely be further recommendations for management.
