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Health Tip: Managing Febrile Seizures

Last Updated: 2010-Jan-01  ::  (HealthDay)

(HealthDay News) -- When infants and young children get a fever, they can also have a "febrile" (feverish) seizure. This type of seizure doesn't mean the child has epilepsy or brain damage. It's usually not serious and typically resolves on its own.

The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions for managing a child's febrile seizure:

  • Keep the child in a safe, soft area to protect the head.
  • Have the child lie down on his or her side, to prevent choking.
  • Make sure the child is breathing well and that the face isn't changing color. If the child turns blue or another color, or the seizure lasts longer than 10 minutes, consider it a medical emergency.
  • Call your child's doctor for an evaluation after the seizure ends.

During the seizure:

  • Don't hold the child down or try to restrain the child.
  • Don't put anything inside the child's mouth.
  • Don't immerse your child in water in an attempt to bring the fever down.
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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.