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Convulsions associated with acute febrile illness (fever) in otherwise healthy children are called febrile seizures. This problem affects 2% - 4% of children, mainly in the second year of life. There is a 30% risk of recurrence of seizure with subsequent febrile illness, and 3% - 6% of children with febrile seizures will likely develop epilepsy later in life.
Generally, no "special" studies are indicated and no anti-seizure medications are needed. Treatment is directed towards the underlying illness which causes the fever. Fever is controlled with Tylenol, Motrin, sponge baths, or more sophisticated cooling equipment.
Cool or ice baths are not recommended any longer since they cause constriction of the peripheral blood vessels, and internal body temperature actually increases. Convulsions can be frightening to parents, and should not be ignored, but generally their effects are temporary. Consult your child’s pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
For additional healthy kids tips, log onto baymed.org, scroll over "Health Checks & You" and join our "E-List." For more information about childhood diseases or development, contact Inez Balinska, MD or Darek Balinski, MD, McLaren Bay Region Pediatrics, Medical Mall, 1456 W. Center Road, Essexville. (989) 895-4840.
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