The Doc Talk Podcast
Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe have spent years navigating the health care system. Not just as doctors for their patients, but as moms for their kids, and patients themselves. And they know it's not always straightforward.
Every two weeks they'll take a real question from a real patient, and provide in-depth answers with a clear path to action, with help from other trusted experts.
No jargon. No time wasted. Just real talk about real issues from two doctors who've seen it all. And they'll give you the inside scoop on how to navigate the health care system like a pro.
This is The Doc Talk.
Disclaimer: The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.
The Doc Talk Podcast
20. Are Febrile Seizures Dangerous?
In this episode, Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe tackle one of the scariest moments for parents — when a child has a seizure during a fever. They break down what febrile seizures are, why they happen, what to do in the moment, and when to seek medical care.
What We Cover:
- What febrile seizures are and how they differ from epilepsy
- Why they happen — and why it’s the rapid rise in temperature, not the height of the fever, that matters
- What they look like, including how to tell a simple from a complex febrile seizure
- What to do if your child has one — key steps to keep them safe and when to call 911
- The outlook: most kids outgrow febrile seizures by age five or six, and long-term outcomes are excellent
- When to see a doctor and what red flags to watch
Special thank you to our sponsor, FIGS. In our line of work, we basically live in our scrubs, and we love FIGS for making ones that are comfortable, breathable, durable, and actually flattering. Beyond great scrubs, FIGS builds real community for healthcare workers with meaningful events, conversations, and (let’s be honest) the best memes online. If you work in healthcare or know someone who does, visit wearfigs.com and use code FIGSCA for 20% off your first order.
Disclaimer: A reminder that The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.