My 10-month-old daughter had a seizure the other night. When I brought her to the hospital the doctor told me it was caused by a high temperature. Why did this happen?
What your child experienced was something called a febrile convulsion. Typically occurring in young children when they have a high temperature or fever, parents may first notice that their child is a little dazed or "out of it" followed by a period of muscle twitching or jerking. Usually associated with an acute viral illness, an increase in body temperature can temporarily upset the activity of the young child's developing brain.
Although very frightening for parents, febrile convulsions are quite common, with approximately one in 20 children suffering a fit from a fever. There is a tendency for the problem to run in families.
Does this mean my child has epilepsy?
No. Febrile convulsions tend to occur in children between the ages of six months and three years but usually cease by the age of six. They do not appear to cause long-term damage, nor do they cause epilepsy in later life.
Is this likely to happen again and, if so, what should I do?
As your child is susceptible to febrile convulsions, it would be wise to be alert for them during periods of illness. As soon as you notice your child's temperature is increasing, you should take steps to lower it. You can do this by removing excess layers, leaving her dressed in just a single light layer of clothing.
Keep the room temperature low and make sure your child is adequately hydrated by encouraging good fluid intake.
Use paediatric paracetamol to help reduce fever and, if necessary, sponge her down with a cloth wrung out in tepid water.
If, despite the above preventive steps, your child has a convulsion, place her on her side with her head turned to one side. Never lie a fitting child on her back or place anything in her mouth.
Seek medical assistance right away. Even if the convulsion stops, you should have her medically examined as soon as possible as she may require treatment for an underlying infection.
Marion Kerr