Fever‑Related Seizures: Quick Guide
If a child’s temperature spikes and they start shaking, it can be scary. Those shakes are often called febrile seizures and they happen more often than you think. Most of the time they’re brief and don’t cause long‑term problems, but knowing what to do can keep everyone calmer.
Recognizing a Febrile Seizure
A febrile seizure usually starts when a kid’s temp hits 102°F (38.9°C) or higher. You might see the child’s eyes roll, arms stiffen, and then shake all over. The episode often lasts under five minutes. After it stops, the child may be sleepy or a little confused, but they usually wake up fine.
First‑Aid Steps
Stay cool and act fast. First, gently lay the child on their side to keep airways clear. Don’t try to hold them down or put anything in their mouth – that can cause injury. Time the seizure; if it goes over five minutes, call emergency services right away. While waiting, keep the room cool and give a fever‑reducing medicine like acetaminophen when you can.
After the seizure, check their temperature. If it’s still high, give the recommended dose of a fever reducer and call a doctor if the fever won’t come down or if the child has a known medical condition. Most doctors will want to see the child after the first episode just to rule out other issues.
What can you do to prevent future seizures? Keep fevers low with regular doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen, dress the child in light clothes, and use a cool compress on the forehead. Staying on top of infections – like colds or earaches – helps because those are common triggers.
Remember, most febrile seizures are harmless. They rarely cause lasting brain damage, and kids who have one usually outgrow them by age five. Still, if your child has more than one seizure, or if the seizures are long, get medical advice quickly.
Some parents worry about medication side effects. The key is to follow dosing instructions and not give more than the recommended amount. If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist or doctor – they can help you choose the right product for your child’s age and weight.
Finally, keep a simple log of any fever spikes, seizure details, and medicines given. This record helps your doctor see patterns and recommend the best plan. With a clear head and the right steps, you can handle a fever‑related seizure confidently and keep your child safe.
