Absence seizure

What is an Absence Seizure?
Formerly known as a Petit Mal Seizure, this involves brief, sudden lapses of consciousness.

Key Sign: The person (usually a child) appears to be staring into space for a few seconds. It is often mistaken for daydreaming or a lack of attention.

Symptoms

Episodes are brief (10-15 seconds), and the person recovers immediately with no memory of the event. They can happen dozens of times a day.

1. The Hallmark Sign

• Vacant Stare: Suddenly stopping an activity and staring blankly.
• No Response: They do not respond when you call their name or touch them.

2. Subtle Movements (Automatisms)

• Lip-smacking or chewing motions.
• Eyelid fluttering.
• Finger rubbing or small hand movements.

⚠️ WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Contact a doctor the first time you notice a seizure.

Call 911 if:

• The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.
• The person remains confused for a long time afterward.
• Another seizure happens immediately.

Causes & Triggers

Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the brain. In absence seizures, these signals repeat in a specific 3-second pattern.

• Genetics: Many children have a genetic predisposition.
• Hyperventilation: Rapid breathing can trigger an episode.
• Flashing Lights: (In rare cases).

Risk Factors

• Age: Most common between ages 4 and 14.
• Gender: More common in girls.
• History: Kids who had febrile seizures (seizures from fever) as infants are at higher risk.

Diagnosis

Since the seizures are so brief, they often go unnoticed until a teacher reports "daydreaming" or learning decline.

• EEG (Electroencephalogram): The gold standard test. Painless electrodes on the scalp measure brain waves. The child may be asked to breathe rapidly to provoke a seizure during the test.
• MRI: To rule out other brain issues like tumors (though rare).

Treatment

Most children can control seizures with medication, and many outgrow them by their teens.

Medications

• Ethosuximide (Zarontin): The most common starting drug; very effective for absence seizures.
• Valproic Acid (Depakene): Effective but has higher risks for side effects.
• Lamotrigine (Lamictal): Has fewer side effects but may be slightly less effective.

Lifestyle & Safety

• Medical ID: Wear a bracelet that states your condition and lists your emergency contacts.
• Inform School: Ensure teachers and coaches know it isn't "bad behavior" or "not listening."
• Sleep: Lack of sleep can trigger seizures, so maintain a strict bedtime routine.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.