$Unique_ID{BRK01178}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Convulsion During an Illness in a Child}
$Subject{fever seizures child care nervous system convulsion febrile seizure
anticonvulsant fevers children kid kids convulsions anticonvulsants}
$Volume{S-1}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Convulsion During an Illness in a Child


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QUESTION:  When our baby recently had a convulsion during an illness with a
high fever, we were tremendously upset.  Although we were told such things are
common, it has left us with a great deal of apprehension.  Could you please
discuss this situation and give us the information we should be considering?

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ANSWER:  Febrile seizure is a convulsion (a violent and involuntary
contraction of the muscles of the body and limbs) caused by a fever in
otherwise healthy children, usually between the ages of three months and five
years.  It can last anywhere from under two minutes to over fifteen, and can
occur more than once in a twenty four hour period.
     While convulsions of this type are common during childhood bouts of flu,
colds, ear infections and other infections which produce a high fever, parents
have a right to be concerned, for it is a frightening experience.  Let me
reassure you.  In the great majority of cases there really is nothing to fear,
and reducing the child's fever will usually prevent a reoccurrence of the
seizure.  However, any incident of febrile seizure should be brought to the
attention of the family physician to rule out more serious causes such as
encephalitis, meningitis, and epilepsy.
     If there is reason to suspect that the seizure may have other causes than
just fever, a full examination is recommended.  Post-seizure evaluation begins
with thorough history-taking and physical examination.  Anticonvulsant
medication, further testing, and x-rays are ordered only if the seizures are
complicated.  For instance, an EEG or brain wave scan to detect structural
disease such as tumors would be indicated for seizures that may have lasted a
long time or affected just one part of the body.  It sounds as if you have no
cause for worry, but it is advisable to check it out.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.