Childhood Seizures

(HealthDayNews) -- Children have seizures for reasons ranging from high fevers to underlying medical conditions.

While they can be terrifying, seizures usually last only a few minutes, according to The Nemours Foundation.

If your child has a seizure, here's what to do:

• Gently place your child on the floor and remove any nearby objects.
• Loosen clothing around his or her head or neck.
• Don't try to prevent the shaking.
• Don't put anything in your child's mouth.
• Roll your child onto his side. If he vomits, keep him on his side and clear his mouth out with your finger.
• Don't give your child anything to drink until he is fully alert.
• Call the doctor immediately.

Seek emergency medical care if your child:

• Has a seizure lasting more than five minutes.
• Has difficulty breathing.
• Turns a bluish color on the lips, tongue, or face.
• Falls or hits his or her head during a seizure.

-- Felicity Stone