What is the most common cause of seizures in infants and children?

The most common cause of seizures in infants and children is fever, specifically in the form of febrile seizures. Febrile seizures typically occur in children between six months and five years of age and are associated with a rapid increase in body temperature due to an illness, often caused by viral infections.

Febrile seizures are generally brief and do not usually lead to long-term health issues. The body's immature nervous system in young children can respond dramatically to changes in temperature, leading to the convulsive episodes that characterize these seizures. Recognizing that fever is a prevalent trigger for seizures in this age group is crucial for effective assessment and reassurance of parents or guardians.

Understanding this context helps clarify the importance of monitoring body temperature during illness in young children, as well as the benign nature typically associated with febrile seizures compared to other potential causes like hypoglycemia or head trauma, which are less common and often suggest underlying health concerns that require different management approaches.