Toddler Seizures

A seizure is an involuntary movement of the limbs triggered by uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. Seizures are of various types and are known to either affect one part of the body or the body as a whole, depending on the part of the brain that is affected. The individual suffering from a seizure usually loses consciousness and is unaware of the episode. However, level of alertness and intensity of abnormal activity may differ depending on the type of seizure. Seeing a toddler having a seizure is definitely not a sight that any parent or caregiver would like to witness.

Toddler Seizure Causes

The cause of seizures differs from toddler to toddler. Toddler Febrile seizures are the most common form of seizures in toddlers, triggered by fever that accompanies an infection like influenza or chicken pox. Seizures could be inherited or caused by trauma to the head. Premature babies and infants who have spent approximately a month in intensive care due to poor development and toddlers suffering with cerebral palsy and meningitis are also known to experience these episodes. Certain drugs, medication or poisons could also trigger brain malfunction. 1 percent of children are known to have epilepsy - a condition in which they have chronic seizures over a long period of time that may continue into adulthood as well. However, in most cases, the cause of the bouts remains unknown. When a child has had a seizure caution should be practiced at all times. Seizures cannot be prevented but activities, such as swimming and riding a bicycle, which can cause harm in case of a sudden seizure should be avoided or should be closely supervised. Fevers should be controlled in toddlers prone to febrile seizures.

Toddler Seizure Treatment

Toddler Seizures should not be taken lightly and consulting a doctor at the earliest is recommended so as to avoid further complications. The nature of abnormal movements like rhythmic jerking and muscle spasms, repetitive movements, rolling of the eyeballs and breathing difficulties accompanied by the level of alertness of the toddler help a doctor in ascertaining the type of seizure. Depending on this, the doctor will recommend the further course of action to be taken. Based on the period and intensity of the seizures, especially in the case of first time episodes, the toddler should be examined in the emergency section of a hospital. If the child seems to be injured or is having difficulty breathing, the use of an ambulance is highly recommended. All caregivers should have the number of the pediatrician lest there be an emergency.