Seizures in childhood can be alarming, but it is important to know how to handle it. There are different types of seizures, with febrile seizures being the most common during childhood. Here's a guide on how to manage them:
What are seizures?
Seizures are uncontrolled muscle contractions caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
They may be accompanied by:
- Loss of consciousness
- Muscle stiffness or irregular movements
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Possible causes of seizures in children:
- Febrile seizures
- Epilepsy: A chronic condition requiring medical supervision
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Head trauma
- Infections of the central nervous system (e.g., meningitis)
- Dehydration or electrolyte imbalances
How to respond during a Seizure episode:
- Stay calm
- Ensure the child is safe:
- Remove nearby objects that could cause injury
- Lay the child on a safe surface, ideally on their side to prevent choking if they vomit
- Do NOT put anything in the child’s mouth
- There is no risk of "swallowing the tongue", but placing objects in the mouth can cause injury.
- Check the duration of seizures
- Do NOT try to restrain the child’s movements
- Check their temperature:
- If the child has a fever, give antipyretics (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen) after the seizure ends
When to seek emergency help:
- If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes
- If the child doesn’t recover quickly afterward
- If it is the first episode
- If you suspect the seizure was caused by head trauma or infection (e.g., meningitis)
- If the child has diabetes
- If the child has difficulty in breathing
After the episode:
- Reassure the child: They are usually tired or sleepy afterward
- Consult a doctor: Even if the seizure appears to be febrile, a medical evaluation is needed to rule out other causes
Most febrile seizures are not dangerous and do not cause long-term issues, but proper and timely response is crucial.