What causes convulsions due to high fever in children, and what should be done?
Jan 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Febrile convulsions may be associated with conditions such as otitis media, upper respiratory tract infections, meningitis, epilepsy, and brain abscesses. These conditions require general treatment, medication, or surgical intervention based on their underlying causes. If convulsions persist even after the child's fever has subsided, prompt medical attention is necessary to identify the cause, and appropriate medications should be used accordingly to avoid delaying treatment.
Generally speaking, high fever refers to high body temperature. Febrile seizures may be related to factors such as otitis media, upper respiratory tract infection, meningitis, epilepsy, and brain abscess. It is recommended to undergo general treatment, medication, or surgical treatment timely according to the underlying cause. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is necessary. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Otitis Media
Otitis media is usually caused by bacterial or viral infection. Repeated inflammatory irritation of the eardrum may trigger an inflammatory response, increasing body temperature. Persistent high fever may lead to convulsions. It is typically accompanied by symptoms such as ear pain and tinnitus. Medications such as Cefuroxime Axetil Granules, Ibuprofen Granules, and Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Ear Drops may be used under a doctor's guidance.
2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Upper respiratory tract infection is associated with bacterial or viral infections in the body. These factors may lead to the release of inflammatory mediators, causing high fever and subsequent convulsions. Symptoms such as coughing and runny nose may also occur. Treatment may include medications like Oseltamivir Phosphate Granules, Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Dry Suspension, and Ibuprofen Suspension, as directed by a physician.
3. Meningitis
Meningitis is caused by pathogens invading the intracranial tissues, resulting in an inflammatory response. Persistent high fever can increase intracranial pressure, potentially triggering convulsions. Common symptoms include headache, vomiting, and impaired consciousness. Prompt treatment under medical guidance with medications such as Acyclovir Injection, Ceftriaxone Sodium for Injection, and Mannitol Injection is recommended.
4. Epilepsy
Epilepsy results from abnormal discharges of brain neurons. If body temperature continues to rise, it may trigger epileptic seizures, leading to convulsions. Symptoms may include loss of consciousness and mental abnormalities. Timely treatment under medical supervision with medications such as Sodium Valproate Oral Solution, Phenobarbital Sodium Injection, and Fosphenytoin Sodium Injection Concentrated Solution is necessary.
5. Brain Abscess
A brain abscess refers to the accumulation of pus within brain tissue, usually caused by bacterial infection. Bacterial irritation of the brain may cause inflammatory fever, accompanied by convulsions and headache. Treatment options include procedures such as aspiration or surgical removal of the abscess, strictly following the doctor's instructions.
It should be noted that if convulsions persist even after the child's fever has subsided, the underlying cause should be promptly identified for targeted treatment. Additionally, it is important to keep the child warm to avoid worsening of the condition due to cold exposure.
