A seizure can also be known as a convulsion or fit. In children and babies, seizures are usually caused by a raised body temperature, often following an infection. This type of seizure is known as a febrile convulsion. Other causes include:

An imbalance of nerve-signalling brain chemicals (epilepsy)
Head or brain injury
Stroke

How to support a baby or child during a seizure

Scenario:

The baby or child has collapsed and is making sudden jerking movements. They may also have froth around their mouth.

How to respond:

Make them safe and prevent injury. Use a blanket or clothing to protect their head. Do not restrain them.

Restraining them may cause injury to you or them. Let the seizure run its normal course. Remove objects that may injure them while they are having the seizure. Also, do not place anything in their mouth. After the seizure, help them to rest on their side with their heads tilted back. This will make sure they keep breathing. Finally, call 999 if necessary.

The baby or child needs urgent medical attention if:

It is their first seizure.

The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.

They have hurt themselves.

You are unsure as to the cause of the seizure.

If you can’t call 999, get someone else to do it.

Supporting a Baby or Child During a Seizure

Unii's Paediatric First Aid Journey shares what to do and what you should never do if a child has a seizure.