Information about Fits and Faints in Children

We Have to Know about the Fits and Faints in Children

• A fit is an abnormal cerebral discharge
• A seizure is a paroxysmal alteration in behavior due to various causes
• Convulsion is used when a child has a sudden episode of stiffening

Could be dangerous, if the answer is YES for any one of the following questions

• Loss of conscious?

Causes of Fits and Faints in Children

• Transient ischaemic attacks”, where there is transient impairment of cerebral blood flow
• Breath-holding attack- common and harmless spell, seen in children of 1-3 years. Induced by minor injury or frustration. The child takes in a breath to cry, lets out a single cry and then holds the breath in expiration
• “Pallid” breath-holding attacks- induced by sudden pain or fright. The child gives a cry, and then abruptly loses consciousness.
• Fainting spells – occur in school-age children who are unwell or made to stand for prolonged periods. There is a drop in systemic blood pressure which causes malaise followed by loss of consciousness. The child sags to the ground and is noted to be very pale and clammy
• Cardiac arrhythmia- sudden loss of consciousness – and even sudden death.
• Congenital heart block-causes fainting spells

A migraine – A headache is due to dilatation of arteries outside the cranium. Sudden attacks of vertigo occur during which they will drop to the floor, or show other bizarre behaviors suggestive of epilepsy.

Epilepsy – Recurrent seizures with no demonstrable cause. Occurs at the age of three years. Family histories of these children often provide evidence of a genetic influence.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fits and Faints in Children

• Try to support when the child is having fit

Signs & Symptoms of Fits and Faints in Children

• Tonic and clonic movements present

Medical advice for Fits and Faints in Children

• All cases of fainting and fits need immediate attention of the doctor

Risk factors of Fits and Faints in Children

• Fits may be precipitated by sudden fever, infection, anoxia, various metabolic derangements, and trauma and toxin ingestion

Treatment for Fits and Faints in Children

• Medications

Self-care for Fits and Faints in Children

• Do not let fever to increase
• Start cold sponging of the child as soon as possible whenever there is high fever

Investigations for Fits and Faints in Children

• Routine lab tests
• EEG and CT scan in some cases.