How to handle a child's febrile convulsion
May 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Febrile seizures in children may be caused by factors such as underdeveloped nervous system, genetic predisposition, colds, otitis media, encephalitis, and other reasons. The appropriate treatment must be selected according to the specific cause in order to achieve effective therapy. Prompt medical attention is necessary, and treatment should be conducted under medical guidance. During the treatment process, it is important to follow the physician's instructions, take medications on schedule, and adjust lifestyle habits and dietary practices to promote recovery.
Generally, febrile seizures in children may be caused by factors such as incomplete development of the nervous system, genetic predisposition, common cold, otitis media, encephalitis, and others. Measures such as general treatment and medication can help improve the condition. Prompt medical attention is necessary, and treatment should follow medical advice. Details are as follows:
1. Incomplete nervous system development: Children's nervous systems are not fully matured, especially the neurons in the brain, which can become overly excitable when body temperature rises, leading to febrile seizures. It is important to ensure the child's airway remains unobstructed to prevent suffocation and hypoxia. The child should be placed in a lateral position with the head turned to one side.
2. Genetic factors: Genetic factors can contribute to febrile seizures in children. Multiple genes and/or chromosomal abnormalities are associated with febrile seizures. Children with a family history of febrile seizures are more likely to develop them. During a seizure, it is also necessary to ensure airway patency, control body temperature, and administer sedative medications.
3. Common cold: The common cold is usually caused by pathogens such as bacteria and fungi, leading to high fever. The high temperature further increases neuronal excitability, raising the risk of febrile seizures, often accompanied by coughing. Antiviral medications such as pediatric phlegm-resolving and cough-relieving granules, cefaclor granules, or pediatric paracetamol, chlorpheniramine, and artificial cow-bezoar granules may be used according to medical advice.
4. Otitis media: Otitis media is a common infectious disease in children, usually caused by bacterial or viral infection. The inflammation can cause increased pressure and pain within the ear canal and may also lead to high fever and seizures, accompanied by ear pain. Anti-infective and anti-inflammatory medications such as amoxicillin capsules, roxithromycin tablets, and clindamycin phosphate tablets may be used under medical guidance.
5. Encephalitis: Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. The inflammation can lead to increased intracranial pressure and abnormal neuronal discharges, causing high fever and seizures, often accompanied by headache. Medications such as mannitol injection, acyclovir tablets, and ethambutol hydrochloride tablets should be used according to medical advice to reduce intracranial pressure, fight viral infection, and treat tuberculosis.
During treatment, it is essential to follow medical instructions, take medications on time, and pay attention to adjusting lifestyle habits and dietary habits to promote recovery.
