What causes fever-induced convulsions in children?

Generally, the main causes of fever-induced convulsions in young children include rapid increases in body temperature, immature nervous system development, upper respiratory tract infections, meningitis, and fever-associated epilepsy. If symptoms occur, it is recommended to promptly visit a qualified hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Sudden Rise in Body Temperature

When a child's body temperature rises rapidly within a short time, exceeding 38.5°C, it may stimulate abnormal electrical activity in the brain's neurons, leading to convulsions. At this point, immediate physical cooling measures such as wiping the child's forehead, armpits, and groin with lukewarm water should be taken. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as acetaminophen suspension drops, ibuprofen suspension, or pediatric Chai Gui antipyretic granules can be administered to quickly reduce body temperature and alleviate convulsive symptoms.

2. Immature Nervous System Development

Infants' nervous systems are not yet fully developed, and the cerebral cortex has weak inhibitory function, making them prone to neuronal excitation and convulsions during fevers. In daily life, it is important to adjust clothing according to temperature changes to avoid catching a chill and developing a fever. Close monitoring of body temperature is necessary during fevers, and if it exceeds 38°C, medications such as pediatric paracetamol chlorpheniramine granules, pediatric antiviral granules, or acetaminophen suppositories can be taken under a doctor's advice to prevent high fever-induced convulsions.

3. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Viral or bacterial infections causing upper respiratory tract infections can lead to fever in children. Toxins produced during the infection may stimulate the nervous system and trigger convulsions. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as pediatric Chai Qiao antipyretic granules, cefaclor dry suspension, or ribavirin granules should be taken to combat infection and reduce fever. At the same time, ensure the child gets plenty of rest and drinks sufficient water to promote recovery and reduce the occurrence of convulsions.

4. Meningitis

Infections caused by pathogens such as bacteria or viruses that invade the meninges can cause inflammation, which stimulates brain tissue, leading to fever and convulsions. Symptoms may also include headache and vomiting. Prompt medical attention is necessary, and under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection, penicillin sodium for injection, or acyclovir injection should be used for anti-infective treatment. Concurrently, mannitol injection may be used to reduce intracranial pressure and alleviate convulsions and other discomforts.

5. Epilepsy with Fever

Children with pre-existing epilepsy may experience seizures triggered by the body's stress response during a fever, presenting as convulsions typically accompanied by loss of consciousness and foaming at the mouth. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as valproate oral solution, carbamazepine tablets, or phenobarbital tablets should be taken to control epileptic seizures. During fevers, ibuprofen suspension should be promptly administered to reduce body temperature and minimize convulsion triggers.

In daily life, ensure proper indoor ventilation and avoid taking children to crowded places to reduce infection risks. Regularly vaccinate children to prevent infectious diseases. Promptly implement cooling measures when a child has a fever and closely monitor their mental state. If a child has previously experienced fever-induced convulsions, regular neurological evaluations at the hospital are necessary to monitor disease progression and maintain the child's health.