Febrile seizures are convulsions brought on by a fever, typically in children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years.
These are generally generally harmless seizures, but can be extremely traumatic to watch!
And anxiety about it recurrent febrile seizures can lead to ‘fever phobia’ and over use of anti-pyretic medication (like Nurofen and Paracetemol)
While the exact cause of febrile seizures isn’t fully understood, several factors, including genetics and environmental triggers, are thought to contribute.
Nutrient deficiencies have also been studied as potential contributing factors.
We can’t control our genetics, but with the help of the team at the Paediatric Naturopath we can assess and resolve nutrient deficiencies
Febrile seizures risk factors:
Iron Deficiency
Iron is crucial for brain development and neurotransmitter function. Studies have shown that children with febrile seizures are more likely to have iron deficiency anemia. The exact mechanism isn’t clear, but it may relate to the role of iron in temperature regulation and immune response.
Never give your child an iron supplement without doing a blood test. Iron supplements can lea to all sorts of gut issues and constipation. Plus some people have iron overload, which can give similar symptoms to iron deficiency.
If is pretty safe to just focus on increasing iron rich foods like red meat.
Zinc Deficiency
Zinc plays a role in modulating the central nervous system, and its deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of febrile seizures. It also happens to be one of my favourite supplements for kids.
Zinc is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, and low levels may impair the body’s ability to handle infections that can trigger fever and seizures.
If you are going for a blood test you can get zinc checked, but we often use hair tissue mineral analysis to check for zinc deficiency too. If your child is a fussy eater they are highly likely to be deficient in zinc.
Magnesium Deficiency
Magnesium is important for nerve function and muscle control. A deficiency may increase neuronal excitability and could contribute to the occurrence of febrile seizures. Some studies suggest a correlation between low magnesium levels and increased seizure susceptibility.
We also check for magnesium on a hair test. Its such a calming nutrient and great for things like sleep and ADHD also.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D has neuroprotective properties and is involved in calcium metabolism. Deficiency in vitamin D has been observed in some children with febrile seizures. Since vitamin D influences the immune system, its deficiency could contribute to the frequency or severity of infections leading to fever and seizures.
The best way to check Vitamin D levels is on a blood test, but bear in mind that the ranges written on blood tests are suboptimal.
Getting your child outside for safe sun exposure is the best way to top up their vitamin D.
Calcium Deficiency
Calcium is critical for nerve transmission and muscle function. Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) can lead to increased neuronal excitability, which might predispose a child to seizures. However, this is less commonly associated with febrile seizures specifically compared to other types of seizures.
Conclusion
While nutrient deficiencies like iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and calcium are associated with an increased risk of febrile seizures, it’s important to note that these deficiencies are not the sole cause.
They may contribute to the susceptibility or severity of febrile seizures, particularly in the presence of other factors like infections or genetic predisposition.
Addressing these deficiencies through diet or supplementation could potentially reduce the risk, but it’s essential to consult with a Naturopath or Nutritionist before randomly starting supplements.
Make an appointment with anyone on the team.
