Febrile Seizures in Children: What Every Parent Should Know

By: Tim CI RS Premier Jatinegara

1. What Are Febrile Seizures?

A febrile seizure is a convulsion that occurs in children between 6 months and 5 years old, triggered by a sudden rise in body temperature, usually above 38°C (100.4°F). Although this condition can be alarming, especially for parents witnessing it for the first time, most febrile seizures are harmless and short-lived.

The seizure happens because a child’s nervous system is still developing. When body temperature increases rapidly, the brain may overreact, causing a brief convulsion. While most children recover completely, it’s important for parents to understand the warning signs and how to provide proper first aid during an episode.

2. Who Is at Risk of Febrile Seizures?

Any child can experience a febrile seizure, but certain factors increase the risk:

• A fever higher than 38°C due to an infection or illness.

• Age between 6 months and 5 years, with the highest risk between 12 and 18 months.

• A family history of febrile seizures.

• Viral or bacterial infections that cause a sudden rise in body temperature.

• Dehydration or fatigue during fever.
  
  Although febrile seizures are generally benign, parents need to recognize early signs to ensure the child receives the right care at the right time.

3. What Should Parents Do When a Seizure Happens?

Seeing a child have a seizure can be frightening, but staying calm is crucial. Here are the recommended steps to ensure the child’s safety:

• Stay calm and avoid panicking.

• Move nearby objects away to prevent injury.

• Lay the child on their side to keep the airway clear.

• Loosen any tight clothing, especially around the neck.

• Do not restrain the child or put anything in their mouth, as this can be dangerous.

• If possible, record the seizure to show the doctor later.

• Note how long the seizure lasts.
  
  Once the seizure stops, take the child to the hospital for evaluation. Most seizures end within one to two minutes, but medical assessment is still important to determine the underlying cause of the fever.
  

4. When Should You See a Doctor?

While most febrile seizures resolve safely, there are times when immediate medical attention is needed. Bring your child to a healthcare facility if:

• The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.

• The child has trouble breathing, turns blue, or remains unconscious after the seizure.

• Seizures recur within a short period (such as twice in 24 hours).

• The child has a persistent high fever that doesn’t go down with fever medication.

• The seizure is accompanied by other symptoms like a stiff neck, rash, or persistent vomiting.
  
  Doctors may perform additional tests to ensure the seizure isn’t related to other conditions such as meningitis or neurological disorders.

5. How Can Febrile Seizures Be Prevented?

Although febrile seizures cannot always be prevented, parents can take several steps to reduce the risk:

• Give fever reducers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) when the child’s temperature rises.

• Make sure the child drinks enough fluids and gets plenty of rest.

• Avoid wrapping the child too tightly when they have a fever.

• Monitor body temperature regularly using a thermometer.

• If your child has a history of febrile seizures, discuss a home management plan with your pediatrician.

Don’t panic if your child experiences a febrile seizure. Stay calm, provide proper first aid, and take your child to RS Premier Jatinegara for prompt and professional medical care. Our medical team is ready to provide fast, safe, and compassionate treatment for your child’s needs.

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