Seizure symptoms can take many forms, and seizures in babies can sometimes be tough for parents to spot. Babies most often suffer from seizures as a result of a very high fever--these are called febrile seizures--says BabyCenter, and are rarely an indication of epilepsy. If you suspect that your child has had a seizure, BabyCenter suggests putting in a call to the pediatrician's office to explain what happened. Your child's pediatrician can help you determine the severity of the seizure, and whether or not you need to head to the doctor's office or emergency room.
Staring and Stillness
A minor seizure can cause your baby to simply stare into space and ignore your pleas to get her attention, according to BabyCenter. This behavior often lasts anywhere from only a couple of seconds to several minutes. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that a baby may slip unconscious for a short period, or the body may become very stiff, or simply fall limp and still.
Tremors and Twitches
A seizure can also cause a baby to twitch or tremble slightly. Just one area of the body, maybe baby's leg or arm, may tremble or twitch for one to two minutes, says the NINDS. Twitching and tremors may be signs of a more significant seizure, reports BabyCenter. Some of baby's facial features, like the mouth or eyelids, may twitch during the seizure, according to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. These movements don't stop when you comfort or pick up the baby.
Convulsions and Incontinence
In some cases, a baby's seizure may be so significant that baby's whole body flails or convulses. The arms and legs may start to jerk and flail wildly, reports Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. You may also see that baby suddenly loses control of her bladder and bowels during the seizure.
Breathing Difficulties
A sudden break in breathing can also indicate a seizure, according to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. This is also often accompanied by a slowed heart rate. The baby's skin may also change color during a seizure.
