Febrile seizures - Causes of febrile seizures
- Introduction
- Symptoms of febrile seizures
- Causes of febrile seizures
- Diagnosing febrile seizures
- Treating febrile seizures
- Complications
Febrile seizures are linked to fevers, but the exact cause is unknown.
Some researchers think that the biological processes associated with a high temperature may be responsible.
A high temperature is thought to be caused by a bacterial or viral infection that stimulates the release of cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that affect the parts of the brain and nervous system responsible for regulating the body’s temperature. Their release causes a rise in the body's temperature.
One theory is that in certain people, high levels of cytokines may temporarily ‘scramble’ the workings of the brain and nervous system, triggering a seizure.
Family history
Although febrile seizures are poorly understood, a family history of the conditions is thought to increase the risk.
If a child has a first-degree relative (mother, father, sister or brother) with a history of febrile seizures, their risk of having seizures increases. The more relatives affected, the higher the risk.
This is probably the result of one or more genetic mutations that a child inherits from their parents, which makes them more susceptible to seizures. A genetic mutation means the instructions carried in certain genes become ‘scrambled’, resulting in some of the body’s processes not working in the normal way.
Associated infections
Most febrile seizures occur when a child has a high temperature caused by an infection. The three most common infections associated with febrile convulsions are:
- viral infections, such as chickenpox and flu
- middle ear infections (otitis media)
- tonsillitis
Other infections associated with febrile seizures are:
- urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- upper respiratory tract infection – an infection of the mouth, nose and throat, and associated tissues and structures
- gastroenteritis – an infection of the digestive system
- lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia (a lung infection) and bronchitis (an infection of the airways that supply the lungs)
Vaccinations
In rare cases, febrile seizures can occur after a child has a vaccination. Research has shown that your child has a one in 3,000 to 4,000 chance of having a febrile seizure after having the MMR vaccine.
The risks are even lower with the DTaP/IPV/Hib vaccine – a one in 11,000 to 16,000.
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