How long does a febrile seizure last?

1-2 minutes: Most febrile seizures last less than 1-2 minutes, though your child will likely appear confused for some time after.

It depends: Children between the ages of 1 and 3 years are prone to seizures when ill with fever. Most of these events last less than one minute. However, on occasion they may be repetitive or continuous. This is dangerous and needs urgent medical intervention. Acute medications are available that the parent can administer to the child if this happens. No one should rely on a stop watch.

Few minutes: Usually it is a generalized convulsion, lasting 1-3 minutes.

Febrile seizure: A febrile seizure normally lasts 5 minutes or less. It occurs in children who have a high temperature.

Less than 5 minutes: Most febrile seizures last seconds to 5 minutes.