The kind of febrile seizures we talk about here are called simple febrile seizures. They're usually over in less than five minutes. But there are other kinds of febrile seizures that last longer.

These cause a slightly different movement in your child's body. Only one side of your child's body may twitch, rather than both sides. The seizure may last 15 minutes or longer, and your child might still feel dazed or groggy an hour later. This kind of seizure needs to be checked out and may need treatment.

Call 911 for an ambulance if your child's seizure lasts more than five minutes or if you are worried at all.

Some children get a seizure that lasts a long time, but this is not common. A febrile seizure that lasts longer than 30 minutes is called febrile status epilepticus. Again, you should get medical help if a seizure lasts more than five minutes. These children need hospital treatment to stop the seizure. They may need to stay in the hospital while the doctors find out why it has happened.

Children with febrile status epilepticus will probably need to be treated in a specialist hospital. Also, they may need intensive care nursing.

The information on ConsumerReportsHealth.org should not be viewed as a substitute for a consultation with a medical or health professional. The information is meant to enhance communication with your doctor, not replace it. Consumers Union can not be liable for any loss, injury, or other damages related to your use of this information.

Your use of this information is subject to our User Agreement available at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org.