This is a condition relatively commonly in children and refers to when they experience a seizure with a temperature higher than 38°C. This is usually caused by an infection.

If this is a child’s first seizure it can be distressing to witness. However most febrile convulsions are harmless and do not pose a threat to a child’s health.

Signs of a febrile convulsions are:

• Body will stiffen
• They will begin to convulse (fit)
• May lose responsiveness
• Bladder may loosen

It is common for a child to sleep after a seizure.

TREATMENT

• Remove anything around them that could cause harm.
• Do not restrict their movement.
• Place them into the safe airway position once the convulsions have stopped.

NB: Never put anything into their mouth or try to restrict their movement.

You only need to call for an ambulance if:

• It’s their first seizure
• It’s last more than 5 minutes
• They don’t regain consciousness or are injured
• You are in any doubt