Question
A 2.5-year-old child has experienced three episodes of high fever seizures. Could it be epilepsy? On August 2nd, while playing, the child suddenly exhibited symptoms of eyes rolling back and twitching, different from the previous episodes. This time, there was no frothing at the mouth, and the duration may have exceeded 20 minutes on the road. Upon arrival at the hospital, sedatives were administered, but the seizures did not stop until the doctor increased the dosage gradually. The electroencephalogram (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed normal results. Is this epilepsy or high fever seizures? The child’s body temperature upon arrival at the hospital was 38.8 degrees Celsius. Our local doctor advises a preventive approach, meaning avoiding fever. How should I handle this situation?
Answer
High fever seizures are not epilepsy. However, if high fever seizures occur repeatedly, they may affect the brain and lead to epilepsy. Most cases of febrile seizures occur between 6 months and 5 years after birth, and with age, the frequency of occurrence decreases until they completely disappear. Febrile seizures have a distinct genetic predisposition. During the early stages of a cold or febrile illness, it is advisable to take oral antipyretic medications in advance or use physical cooling methods to prevent a sudden rise in body temperature.