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A first seizure in a child can be alarming, but it is not always a sign of epilepsy. Many children have a one-off seizure due to factors like fever or illness. Here’s what parents and carers need to know.

A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. It can cause:

Jerking movements (convulsions)

Stiffening of the body

Staring spells or unresponsiveness

Loss of consciousness

Unusual sensations or movements

A first seizure refers to the first time a child experiences one of these episodes.

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Common Causes of a First Seizure in Children

A child's first seizure may be caused by:

1. Febrile Seizures (Most Common)

Occurs in children aged 6 months – 6 years

Caused by a high fever (often due to infections like flu, ear infections etc.)

Usually lasts less than 5 minutes

Does not mean epilepsy or confirm epilepsy

2. Other Causes

Infections/Sepsis – Meningitis, encephalitis, or severe illnesses

Head injury – Recent trauma to the brain

High/ Low blood sugar (Hyperglycaemia/hypoglycaemia) – Common in diabetes

Hyperthyroidism/Hypothyroidism

Electrolyte imbalances – Low sodium, potassium, calcium, or magnesium

Sleep deprivation – Lack of sleep can lower the seizure threshold

Genetic factors – Some seizures run in families

Brain abnormalities – Tumours, structural changes, or bleeding in the brain

Epilepsy – Some children develop recurrent seizures

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What Happens Next?

After a first seizure, doctors may:

Do blood tests to check for infections or imbalances

The follow may be performed at first seizure or following the event of more seizures.

Perform an EEG (electroencephalogram) to check brain activity

Order an MRI or CT scan if needed (usually for prolonged or complex seizures)

Refer to a Seizure Service if epilepsy is suspected

If the seizure was due to a fever, most children do not need long-term treatment. If epilepsy is diagnosed, medication may be considered.

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First Seizure information for Children and Young People from RCPCH (Without Fever)

rcpch_following_a_first_seizure_without_fever_in_cyp_cyp_a4_2020_v1.1.pdf

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Seizure First aid Video from The Red Cross- Visual Guide for Seizure First Aid

St John's Ambulance Video Seizure First Aid for Babies

https://youtu.be/CcQZRDcGZpE?feature=shared

St John's Ambulance Video Seizure First Aid for Adults

https://youtu.be/Ovsw7tdneqE?feature=shared

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How to help a child having a seizure (epilepsy) #FirstAid #PowerOfKindness

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Young Epilepsy Seizure First Aid Poster

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Seizure information and Seizure First Aid (Can be Translated)

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Seizure information and Seizure First Aid (Can be Translated)

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Seizure Information and Seizure first aid which can be translated on the website

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Buccal Midazolam, Rectal Diazepam and Paraldehyde are sedating medication and every child reacts differently to these medication. These medications can have an effect on breathing.

If you think you may have given your child too much medication, or your child’s breathing slows down or stops, telephone for an ambulance straight away. (Medicine for Children)

In the event that you may need to attempt or are directed by 999 to perform Basic Life Support. Here are videos by St Johns Ambulance showing the steps required.

Child

https://youtu.be/0aV9NS0ogiM?feature=shared

Baby

https://youtu.be/avYRvVHAvfM?feature=shared

Adult

https://youtu.be/BQNNOh8c8ks?feature=shared

Recovery Position

Child

https://youtu.be/GmqXqwSV3bo

Baby

https://youtu.be/NupCeGFUuoo

Adult

https://youtu.be/GmqXqwSV3bo

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How to do Child CPR - First Aid Training - St John Ambulance