A MUST KNOW FOR EVERY PARENT ABOUT FEBRIL CONVULSIONS

July 02, 2019

I never knew of convulsions until it happened to my own. It is so scary to watch your kid convulse especially with no idea of how to help him or her. If you are like me that time and for first time parents this article might be of some help to you.

What is convulsion?

It is a condition that occurs especially in kids between 6 months and 6 years. Their body shakes uncontrollably and rapidly. The episode can occur between 5-15 minutes or more. .

Convulsions mostly occur in boys and can run through in a family (occurring in kids whose close relatives also had convulsions).

Signs of convulsions

Body becomes stiff
Some parts may shake rapidly like arms, legs, head or what is called twitching
Blackout becoming unconscious
Change in breath
Eyes rolling back

What to do when a child convulse

Lay him on soft ground like bed
Remove any harmful material around him
Ensure there is nothing in the mouth to avoid chocking
Loosen his clothes to ensure easier breathing
Put him in a recovery position that is lying on his left side.

After convulsion, control his fever by undressing him also administer paracetamol suppository (its placed in the back)

Suppository is more effective as normal paracetamol syrup does not really lower the fever.

If the convulsion occurs for more than 5 minutes or it’s the first time to occur seek medical attention immediately.

What causes convulsion

The main cause of febrile convulsion is fever(above 38⁰C) malaria, ear or throat infection and flu.

Febrile convulsions are harmless but one should seek medical attention for further examination.

Convulsion can be caused by malaria, meningitis or fever.

As a parent you should not ignore medical checkup as occurrence of many convulsions can lead to some brain damage. You should also buy a thermometer to monitor fever and paracetamol suppository.