FEBRILE CONVULSIONS

What is it?

A febrile convulsion is triggered off by a rapidly rising temperature (to over 38 degrees centigrade); febrile means "related to fever".

Who gets it?

Febrile convulsions are quite common in young children. As many as one in every 20 children has a febrile convulsion between the ages of one and four. However, most of these children will not have any further problems with convulsions after the age of four. Parents often feel frightened and helpless when their child has a febrile convulsion. There is no need to be.

What are the symptoms?

You will probably observe a disturbance in all the muscles of your child's body, and usually there is loss of consciousness. This may be followed by a stiffening and rhythmical jerking of parts of the body. Eyes may roll up, and there may be frothing at the mouth and blueness around the lips. Breathing may appear shallow. Some children may wet themselves. The convulsion usually lasts between three to five minutes, after which the child recovers spontaneously.

When should I contact the GP?

A convulsion usually lasts between three to five minutes, after which the child recovers. The cause of the temperature rise needs prompt assessment by a doctor. If the convulsion is prolonged, or if the child has a series of convulsions in quick succession, then immediate medical help must be sought.

What is the treatment?

It is important to prevent the temperature rising further, and to try to reduce the temperature. Remove clothing and sponge the child all over with tepid (not cold) water. Direct cool air on to the child by fanning. As soon as possible, turn the child on his/her side to ease breathing. The child may be confused after the convulsion and need reassurance.

Will the child need long-term medication?

There is a risk that a child who has had a febrile convulsion may have another one in similar circumstances. For this reason, your doctor may consider giving medication until your child is older and is less at risk.