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Febrile Seizure in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

What is a febrile seizure in children?

A febrile seizure is a convulsion (uncontrolled shaking) caused by a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. A fever caused by any reason can bring on a febrile seizure in children. Febrile seizures can be simple or complex. A simple febrile seizure lasts less than 15 minutes and does not happen again within 24 hours. A complex febrile seizure lasts longer than 15 minutes or may happen again within 24 hours. Febrile seizures do not cause brain damage or other long-term health problems.

What increases my child's risk for a febrile seizure?

Febrile seizure is the most common seizure in children 6 months to 5 years of age. The following may increase your child's risk for a febrile seizure:

What are the signs and symptoms of a febrile seizure?

How is a febrile seizure diagnosed?

Your child's healthcare provider will ask what your child's seizure looked like and how long it lasted. Your child's healthcare provider will ask about any recent illnesses or immunizations that your child has had. Also tell him or her about any family history of seizures. The provider will also examine your child. Your child may need any of the following:

How are febrile seizures treated?

Your child may be given medicine to treat the cause of his or her fever, such as medicine to treat an infection. Your child may also be given medicine prevent another seizure if he or she had a seizure that lasted 5 minutes or longer. Your child may also be given the following:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

View more treatment options

What should I do if my child has another febrile seizure?

Call 911 for any of the following:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I contact my child's healthcare provider?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.