Fits
FEBRILE CONVULSIONS
Febrile convulsions are seizures (fits) that occur in a child with a high fever of over 39°C (102.2°F). These occur during the early stages of a viral infection such as a respiratory infection, as the temperature rises rapidly.
Causes
The convulsions occur because the electrical systems in the brain are immature, and cannot cope with the stress of a high temperature.
Three per cent of children have at least one febrile convulsion. They mostly occur between the ages of six months and three years (although they sometimes occur up to six years).
There may be a genetic pre-disposition - up to 20 % of relatives will have a seizure disorder including febrile convulsions.
Symptoms
The seizures usually last only a minute or two and never more than five minutes. The child loses consciousness, becomes stiff, and stops breathing for up to 30 seconds. There may be loss of bladder and bowel control. You may then notice twitching or spasms of both limbs and occasionally the face muscles. The child's eyes roll upwards. This stops after a few minutes and the child regains consciousness. Following the fit they fall into a deep sleep, and are often confused or irritable when they finally wake.
Diagnosis and treatment
To prevent the child from injury during the fit, place them in the recovery position and call your doctor.
To bring the temperature down, remove tight clothing and sponge the skin with tepid water. You can also use a fan.
Your child may need to be treated or investigated in hospital to rule out problems other than a febrile convulsion, especially if this is their first seizure. You may be given an anticonvulsant drug called diazepam (which is administered rectally) to keep at home in case of another convulsion.
