Febrile convulsions

Febrile convulsions

Seizures that occur in a child with a high fever of over 39ºC.

Symptoms:

• Caused by an abrupt rise in body temperature. 
• Your child may lose consciousness.
• Go rigid.
• Stop breathing for a while and then start again. 
• Lose control of her bladder or bowel. 
• Her eyes may roll back and her limbs may twitch.

Seriousness:

• Phone a doctor immediately or call an ambulance if the seizure lasts for more than five minutes.

Treatment:

• If your child has a fever try to bring it down to prevent convulsions.
• After a convulsion, tests are likely to be done to exclude serious illness and you will be given advice by your doctor on how to manage future attacks.