How to Identify a Febrile Seizure

A toddler having a seizure for the first time is a terrifying ordeal for a parent or caregiver. The seizure typically lasts a few minutes, but it can seem much longer. Knowing what triggers a febrile seizure and the typical symptoms helps a parent respond appropriately (and possibly with less panic).

Instructions

• 1

  Consider your child's medical history. If he's had a febrile seizure in the past, it's likely that the seizure is another febrile seizure.

• 2

  Identify when the fever started. Most febrile seizures occur within the first 24 hours of fever.

• 3

  Review your child's recent symptoms. Most febrile seizures occur when the fever is over 102 degrees F. Sometimes the seizure is triggered when fever-reducing medication wears off and the fever suddenly spikes.

• 4

  Look for eye rolling or stiffening of limbs at the onset. The entire body may go into a convulsion. Febrile seizures affect more than one area of the body.

• 5

  Expect the child to look pale with shallow breathing. Monitor breathing closely and call 911 if the skin appears bluish.

• 6

  Say the child's name to see if she responds. A child having a febrile seizure won't respond to your voice.

• 7

  Time the length of the seizure or at least approximate it. A febrile seizure doesn't last longer than 15 minutes, even though it may seem longer.