Sepsis in Children: Causes and Effective Management Tips

DiYES International School – Sepsis in children, also known as febrile seizures, often causes panic among parents. This condition typically affects children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, triggered by a sudden rise in body temperature due to fever. Although it appears frightening, febrile seizures are usually harmless when treated properly. Below is a complete explanation of the causes, symptoms, and handling steps for febrile seizures.

What is Sepsis in Children?

Febrile seizures, or “step” in Indonesian, occur due to a sudden spike in body temperature. This condition is different from epilepsy, as febrile seizures are always triggered by fever, while epilepsy can happen without fever. Children between 12 to 18 months are most vulnerable to this condition.

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Causes of Sepsis in Children

Febrile seizures are generally triggered by infections that cause high fever, including:

• Viral infections, such as influenza or roseola.
• Family history of febrile seizures.
• High fever from uncontrolled infections.
• Children who have previously experienced febrile seizures are at higher risk of having them again in the future.

Symptoms of Sepsis in Children

When a child experiences febrile seizures, the following symptoms are often present:

• Body temperature rises above 38°C.
• Hands and feet twitch uncontrollably.
• The eyes roll upward.
• Loss of consciousness or fainting.
• Sudden urination without awareness.
• These symptoms may last from a few seconds to a few minutes.

Types of Sepsis in Children

There are two main types of febrile seizures:

Simple Febrile Seizures

• Last less than 15 minutes.
• Do not recur within 24 hours.
• Typically stop on their own.

Complex Febrile Seizures

• Last longer than 15 minutes.
• May recur within 24 hours.
• Seizures occur only on one side of the body.

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How to Handle Sepsis in Children

If your child experiences febrile seizures, follow these steps:

• Stay calm. Avoid panicking so you can act quickly and appropriately.
• Move the child to a safe area. Keep them away from sharp or dangerous objects.
• Lay the child on their side. This helps prevent choking if the child vomits.
• Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck, to aid breathing.
• Do not try to stop the seizure by force. Let it run its course without physical interference.
• Note the duration of the seizure. If it lasts longer than 5 minutes, immediately take the child to the hospital.
• Never place anything in the child’s mouth, including food, drinks, or medication.
• After the seizure ends, the child may appear tired or confused. Keep monitoring their condition and consult a doctor for further examination.

When to Visit the Hospital for Sepsis?

Take your child to the hospital if:

• The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
• The child has difficulty breathing or their face turns pale.
• The neck is stiff or there is excessive vomiting.
• The child remains unconscious after the seizure.

How to Prevent Sepsis in Children

Although febrile seizures cannot always be prevented, there are steps to reduce the risk:

• Manage fever early. Use paracetamol or ibuprofen as recommended by the doctor.
• Apply a warm compress. Avoid cold water, as it may cause shivering.
• Monitor body temperature. If the fever doesn’t subside, consult a doctor immediately.
• Provide anti-seizure medication, based on the doctor’s advice, if the child has a history of seizures.

While febrile seizures in children may appear frightening, with proper understanding and handling, the condition can be managed effectively. Stay calm, follow emergency steps, and consult a doctor. With the right care, your child can grow healthy without long-term effects from febrile seizures. Don’t hesitate to contact a doctor if your child shows symptoms of febrile seizures or if you have concerns about their health.