Febrile Seizure

Overview

A febrile seizure is an epileptic seizure accompanied by elevated body temperature but without any underlying health problem. It is common in children aged six months to five years. Most last no more than five minutes, and the child returns to normal within sixty minutes. There is a familial tendency. Diagnosis involves excluding brain infection, metabolic disease, and prior afebrile seizures. Neither anticonvulsants nor antipyretics are recommended to prevent progression of simple febrile seizures.

Symptoms

• High fever
• Loss of consciousness
• Convulsions of the limbs
• Upward-rolling eyes
• Bluish lips

Treatment

During a seizure, keep the child on their side to prevent aspiration, do not forcibly restrain the limbs, reduce fever promptly, and seek care to identify the cause of the fever.

Dietary advice

During recovery after fever, eat a bland, easily digestible diet, drink plenty of water, and ensure adequate nutrition and rest.