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Febrile convulsion in children

Where Seizure is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline
Illustration: Where Seizure is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline

Short answer

A febrile convulsion is a seizure linked with fever in a young child; protect the child, time the event, and seek urgent medical advice.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

During the event
Clear the area and time the seizure
Never do
Do not place anything in the child's mouth

What you may see

The child may suddenly stiffen, jerk, become unresponsive, roll their eyes, or have changes in breathing or skin colour. Afterward, they may be sleepy or confused for a while. A fever-related seizure is different from a seizure caused by low blood sugar, alcohol withdrawal, or an infection affecting the brain. A clinician needs to assess the child and identify the source of the fever.

What to do during the seizure

Place the child on a clear, low surface or the floor and move nearby objects away. Turn them onto their side when possible, loosen tight clothing around the neck, and time the movements. Do not restrain them, put anything in their mouth, or give food, drink, or medicine until they are fully alert. Stay with the child and observe breathing.

When to seek emergency help

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts beyond five minutes, repeats without recovery, affects only one side, follows an injury, or the child has trouble breathing. Emergency assessment is also needed for a stiff neck, unusual rash, persistent drowsiness, severe illness, or concern about meningitis. Any first seizure in a child warrants prompt medical assessment.

Questions for the clinician

Ask what caused the fever, how to manage another seizure, whether a rescue medicine is appropriate, and which changes should lead straight to emergency care.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Should I hold my child still?

No. Remove hazards and allow the movements to pass while protecting the head and monitoring breathing.

Can a fever-related seizure be caused by low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar can cause seizures but is a different problem and needs medical assessment.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.