Question
Can febrile seizures progress to epilepsy, and how can they be prevented?
Answer
Febrile seizures are closely related to epilepsy, with about 20% of children with febrile seizures eventually developing epilepsy. Factors that increase the risk of febrile seizures progressing to epilepsy include a family history of epilepsy, pre-existing neurological developmental abnormalities before the first febrile seizure, and complex febrile seizures. To prevent febrile seizures from progressing to epilepsy, measures include administering diazepam immediately during a febrile seizure and ensuring the child’s airway remains open; for children at risk of febrile seizures, intermittent short-term use of antiepileptic drugs may be considered, or long-term treatment with phenobarbital and sodium valproate. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine employs methods such as anti-epileptic clearing, resolving phlegm, and nourishing the brain to prevent febrile seizures and treat their sequelae.