What are the symptoms of a one-year-old baby having a fever and convulsions?

A one-year-old baby with febrile convulsion is an abnormal manifestation of the nervous system caused by high fever. Common symptoms include sudden loss of consciousness, whole-body or local muscle twitching, eyes rolling up, purple lips, etc. Febrile convulsions are usually related to a rapid increase in body temperature, and it is necessary to cool down and seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

1Symptoms and manifestations

Febrile convulsions generally occur when the body temperature rises rapidly to above 38.5℃, usually manifested as short-term convulsions, which usually last from a few seconds to a few minutes. Some babies will suddenly have dull eyes or roll their eyes, rhythmic twitching of facial and limb muscles, and some are accompanied by respiratory arrest and cyanosis of the lips. Once the convulsion stops, the baby may enter a short state of drowsiness. Although most febrile convulsions are short-lived and benign, it is still necessary to distinguish them from other brain diseases such as epilepsy and meningitis. If the convulsion lasts for more than 5 minutes, or is accompanied by obvious abnormal recovery of consciousness, you should seek medical attention immediately.

2 Cause analysis

The occurrence of febrile convulsions is mostly related to the rapid increase in body temperature, rather than the absolute value of body temperature. Common causes include viral infections such as hand, foot and mouth disease, influenza, bacterial infections such as otitis media, pneumonia, or reactions after vaccination. Physiologically, the baby's cerebral cortex is not fully developed, and the excitability of the nervous system is high, so it is more likely to overreact to high fever. Genetic factors may also play a role. If there is a history of febrile convulsions in the family, the child's probability of occurrence will increase.

3. First aid and follow-up care

Once a febrile convulsion occurs, it is very important to stay calm. Place the baby in a flat and safe environment, lying on the side to prevent choking, and avoid forcibly prying the baby's mouth open or forcibly pressing the limbs. Try to record the time and manifestation of the convulsion, and send the baby to the doctor as soon as possible after confirming that the convulsion has stopped. Cooling measures can be selected when the temperature is above 38.5℃, using ibuprofen suspension or acetaminophen, and use the medicine in accordance with the doctor's guidance. At the same time, physical cooling is also very important. Help the baby take off excess clothing and wipe the armpits, back of the head, groin and other parts with 35℃ warm water.

4 Prevention and precautions

Febrile convulsions are more common in babies between 6 months and 5 years old. Parents should be extra vigilant at this stage. When the baby's body temperature shows signs of continued increase, it should be measured in time and antipyretic measures should be taken. If the baby or family has a history of febrile convulsions, you can communicate with the doctor in advance whether preventive medication is needed. In daily life, you should also pay attention to enhancing the baby's immunity and avoiding frequent infections, such as increasing nutrition and doing more outdoor activities.

Although the probability of febrile convulsions developing into serious diseases is low, they may recur, which has a certain impact on the baby's health and the parents' psychology. It is key to monitor and treat the early stage of fever. If necessary, seek medical treatment in time to ensure safety and avoid long-term effects on the baby due to delayed treatment.