Febrile seizures are convulsions that can occur in young children when they have a fever. They most commonly occur between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. Febrile seizures are caused by a sudden increase in body temperature, usually due to a viral infection. They typically last for less than 5 minutes and are not typically harmful. However, they can be frightening for parents to witness.
Most febrile seizures do not require treatment, as they are brief and do not cause any long-term harm. However, it is important to take steps to prevent the child’s fever from rising further, such as administering acetaminophen or ibuprofen and ensuring that the child drinks plenty of fluids. In some cases, a febrile seizure may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, and further testing or treatment may be necessary. Parents should seek medical attention if their child experiences a febrile seizure, particularly if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or if the child has difficulty breathing or remains unresponsive after the seizure.
Signs and Symptoms of Febrile Seizures
Best Treatment Options for Febrile Seizures
At what temperature do febrile seizures occur?