NTPEN-First Seizure Padlet by NTPEN Epilepsy Nurse

What is a 'First Seizure'?

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:05 UTC

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.

What causes a 'First Seizure'?

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:11 UTC

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

Next Steps after 'First Seizure'

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:20 UTC

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.

First Seizure Resources

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:26 UTC

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

Seizure First Aid Resources

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:32 UTC

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

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:43 UTC

Young Epilepsy Seizure First Aid Poster

Seizure information and Seizure First Aid (Can be Translated)

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-12 09:12:49 UTC

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

Basic Life Support

leebutler1_1 — 2025-03-24 18:53:12 UTC

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