The cases of fits are a common occurrence in children below 5. While the surge in cases of fever-induced fits or seizures among children may raise concerns, it is imperative for parents to avoid panicking and instead maintain a watchful eye on their child's health. Recognising that not all fevers lead to convulsions can help alleviate unnecessary distress while seeking medical guidance following a fit or a seizure ensures proper aftercare and support from the expert.
Fits or seizures are not only seen in adults but even in children. Febrile seizures are convulsions that occur in typically developing, healthy children who have not experienced any neurological symptoms previously. “Toddlers are most commonly affected with these seizures. Moreover, febrile seizures often run in families. So, children below 5 are known to have these types of seizures which are triggered by fevers, often stemming from infections, and may last for around 5 minutes. Apart from this, the seizures can also get triggered owing to an ear infection, a cold, tonsillitis, and flu. The symptoms are a sudden contraction of muscles simultaneously on both sides of a child's body, crying or moaning from the child, leading to loss of balance if standing upright. Vomiting and tongue biting, loss of consciousness, rhythmic jerking motions while failing to acknowledge the parent's vocal prompts. Additionally, urinary excretion might ensue during this episode. Every month we have been observing 3 to 4 cases on a regular basis. There is 4 to5% incidence among kids." said Dr. Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Pune.
Febrile seizures do not cause brain damage or any intellectual disabilities. Additionally, they do not indicate the presence of a more severe underlying disorder. It is important to note that febrile seizures are provoked seizures and should not be mistaken for epilepsy. It is essential for parents to seek timely intervention when it comes to their children.
Dr. Irphan Palla, Consultant Pediatrician, Apollo Spectra Pune Said, “A febrile seizure can manifest as up rolling of eyes or generalized or focal tonic-clonic (shaking) movements of the body. Typically, a simple febrile seizure resolves spontaneously within a few seconds to 10 minutes. In a short period of drowsiness or disorientation children come to baseline behaviour within minutes Febrile seizures can be divided into two categories which are simple and complex. Simple febrile seizures are the most prevalent type and usually have a duration of a few seconds to 15 minutes. They do not repeat within a 24-hour timeframe and do not target a specific area of the body. In contrast, complex febrile seizures last longer than 15 minutes, happen more than once a day, or affect only one side of your child's body. It also has more chances of developing epilepsy in later childhood in children with complex febrile seizures After certain childhood vaccinations, such as the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine or the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, there is a chance of febrile seizures. It is important to note that it is the fever induced by the vaccination and not the vaccine itself that triggers these seizures. 2 to 4 percent of the population is at risk for the development of febrile seizures. Usually, 2 to 3 patients come for treatment every week for the last 2 months.
“Do not move the child or try to halt the seizure movements. Ensure the child is not left unattended. Place the child in a secure spot on the ground. Remove any furniture or sharp objects that are near him/ her. If the floor is hard, gently slide a blanket underneath the child. Only relocate the child if they are in immediate danger. Loosen any tight clothing, particularly around their neck area. If feasible, remove clothes from their waist up. If the child vomits, turn him/her onto the side or stomach. Contact the treating doctor immediately who will prescribe medication. Follow the instructions regarding the medication given by the doctor only to avoid any further problems,” concluded Dr. Jagdish.
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