Mild febrile seizure: what to know

During a febrile seizure, a child may stiffen, jerk, become unresponsive, or briefly lose awareness while they have a fever. Afterward they may be sleepy or confused for a short time. The appearance can be frightening, but the cause is not always obvious from watching the episode. A clinician should assess the child and fever, especially if this is the first seizure. Other causes of seizures include low blood sugar, alcohol withdrawal, and serious infections such as meningitis.

Place the child on a safe surface, move nearby objects away, cushion the head, and loosen tight clothing around the neck. Turn the child gently onto their side when possible and observe the start time, movements, breathing, and recovery. Do not restrain them, put anything in their mouth, or give food, drink, or medicine until fully awake. Stay with the child and arrange medical assessment after the seizure, even if they seem well.

Call emergency services if the seizure is continuing, repeats without full recovery, affects breathing, follows an injury, or the child remains unresponsive. Get urgent help for a stiff neck, unusual rash, severe sleepiness, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or a child who appears seriously ill, as these can signal a dangerous infection. A first seizure always warrants prompt clinical advice.

What may have caused the fever, and does my child need tests? How should I respond if another seizure occurs? Which fever medicines are suitable for comfort, what symptoms suggest meningitis, and when should we return for review?