Febrile seizures describe a condition in which a high fever can provoke a convulsion in infants. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), most infants who have seizures have fevers that exceed 102 degrees.
Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of febrile seizure in infants include crying, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness and shaking of the arms and legs. Seek immediate help if your infant displays these symptoms.
Cause
According to the website MedlinePlus, the cause of febrile seizure is a high fever. Ear infections, lung infections and roseola (condition characterized by high fever and rash) can lead to high fevers in infants.
Types
Two types of febrile seizures exist. According to the Mayo Clinic, simple febrile seizures are the most common and can last a few seconds to 10 minutes. Complex febrile seizures last longer than 15 minutes and can occur more than once in a 24-hour period.
Treatment
Most febrile seizures stop on their own, according to the Mayo Clinic. If your infant's seizure last beyond five minutes, call 9-1-1. Medline Plus indicates it is helpful to lower the infant's temperature. You can place cool towels on the infant's forehead and bathe her in a warm bath.
Risk Factors
According to NINDS, a young age (less than 15 months), frequent fevers, and family history make an infant susceptible to febrile seizures.
