How to Prevent High Fever Seizures in Children

Patient's question:

Prevention of high fever convulsions in children

Doctor's answer:

Hello: Febrile seizures are most common in children during infancy. In children aged 0-7 years, the incidence of febrile seizures is 3-4%. A febrile seizure is defined as a convulsion caused by upper respiratory infection or tonsillitis, confirmed after examination in infants and young children. However, febrile seizures caused by infections in the central nervous system, lungs, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, and other infections do not fall under the category of febrile seizures.
Why are infants and young children prone to febrile seizures? This is because the nervous system of infants and young children is not fully developed. For example, the inhibitory function of the cerebral cortex is poor, and the myelination of nerves is not yet complete. Once they are exposed to external stimuli (such as high fever), excitement can easily spread and lead to convulsions. The first febrile seizure often occurs between 6 months and 3 years of age, and there is often a history of febrile seizures or epilepsy in family members. Generally, generalized convulsions appear a few hours after a rapid rise in body temperature, characterized by eyes rolling upward or staring, continuous twitching of the face and limbs, loss of consciousness, and in some cases, cyanosis and incontinence of urine and feces. The duration of convulsions is brief, lasting 5-10 minutes, and only one episode of convulsions typically occurs during a single fever episode. After a convulsion, the child's overall condition and general health remain good. 30-50% of children may experience febrile seizures again upon subsequent high fevers.
For infants and young children who frequently have febrile seizures, if high fever occurs, they should be given antipyretic and sedative medications, and a cold towel should be placed on their head. Alcohol rubs can also be used to achieve timely cooling and prevent convulsions.
When a convulsion occurs, emergency measures should be taken, such as placing the child in a side-lying position, loosening the collar, cooling the body, and placing a toothpick or the handle of a toothbrush between the upper and lower teeth to prevent tongue bites. Additionally, pressure can be applied