Convulsions

Convulsions

What causes convulsions

It is difficult to say what is the exact cause of convulsions. In most children aged between one and three years, convulsions are often linked to the development of a high fever. The child's nervous system is immature and often cannot handle a high temperature the same way that an adult does. Thus, sometimes, the fever stimulates the nerves controlling the muscles and these, in turn, contract violently. Remember that febrile convulsions are not as frightening as they look.

What happens when a child has convulsions

Convulsions due to fever usually only last a minute or two. When your child has a fit, she will probably lose consciousness and begin to twitch uncontrollably. She will clamp her jaws shut tightly and breathe heavily. Her eyes will roll back into her head and she will froth at the mouth. She may even become incontinent. Children usually fall asleep after the convulsions have passed.

What do I do when my child has a fit

Do not panic and rush off to call for help. It is more important not to leave your child alone as she may inhale her vomit if she is sick. To prevent this from happening, place her on her stomach with her head to one side. Do not try to restrain her in any way. Try to keep her away from objects and furniture against which she may injure herself. It is a myth that people bite or swallow their tongues during a convulsion. You will do more harm attempting to prise open your child's jaws during a convulsion. Do not try to feed her or place anything in her mouth.

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