Absence Seizures ( Disease & Conditions, Treatments & Procedures , Symptoms )

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are a type of seizure that typically occur in children between the ages of 4 and 14. During an absence seizure, the person may appear to be staring blankly into space, with a vacant look on their face. The seizure usually lasts for a few seconds to half a minute and is characterized by a sudden and brief loss of consciousness. The person may exhibit rapid blinking or small muscle twitches in the face, arms, or legs. Absence seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can be diagnosed through an electroencephalogram (EEG) test. Treatment typically involves medications to control seizures and monitoring of the condition over time.

This article covers the following topics :

What is an absence seizure?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are a type of seizure that typically occur in children between the ages of 4 and 14, although they can occur in adults as well. These seizures are characterized by a sudden and brief loss of consciousness that lasts for a few seconds to half a minute.

During an absence seizure, the person may appear to be staring blankly into space, with a vacant look on their face. They may also exhibit rapid blinking or small muscle twitches in the face, arms, or legs. The person typically does not fall down or show other physical signs of a seizure, and they may not be aware that anything unusual has happened.

Absence seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, specifically in the part of the brain that controls consciousness and awareness. These seizures can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, fatigue, or flashing lights.

Diagnosing absence seizures typically involves an electroencephalogram (EEG) test, which measures the electrical activity in the brain. During the test, small electrodes are placed on the scalp to record the brain’s electrical activity.

Treatment for absence seizures typically involves medications to control seizures, such as ethosuximide, valproic acid, or lamotrigine. These medications work by reducing the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. In some cases, a combination of medications may be needed to control seizures effectively.

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help manage absence seizures. Getting enough sleep, managing stress, and avoiding triggers such as flashing lights can all help reduce the frequency of seizures.

With proper treatment, most people with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures. However, it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

What can we compare the absence seizure to?

One way to describe an absence seizure is to compare it to a brief “mental absence” or a daydream. During an absence seizure, the person may appear to be staring blankly into space, with a vacant look on their face, similar to how someone might appear when lost in thought or daydreaming. However, during an absence seizure, the person experiences a brief loss of consciousness and is not aware of their surroundings. It’s important to note that although the symptoms of an absence seizure may be similar to daydreaming, the underlying cause and nature of the experience are very different.

How long do absence seizures last?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, typically last for a few seconds to half a minute. They are characterized by a sudden and brief loss of consciousness, during which the person may appear to be staring blankly into space, with a vacant look on their face. They may also exhibit rapid blinking or small muscle twitches in the face, arms, or legs.

After an absence seizure, the person typically returns to full consciousness and is able to resume normal activities without any memory of the seizure. However, frequent absence seizures can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to concentrate and learn, and may require treatment to manage.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing absence seizures or any other type of seizure. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the seizures and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How does the absence seizure end and what happens after it ends?

An absence seizure typically ends on its own after a few seconds to half a minute, and the person will usually resume normal activities without any memory of the seizure. After the seizure ends, the person may briefly feel confused or disoriented, but they will generally be able to resume their normal activities without any long-term effects.

In some cases, a person may experience a cluster of absence seizures, which is when multiple seizures occur in a short period of time. This can cause more significant disruptions to daily activities and may require medical intervention to manage.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences absence seizures or any other type of seizure. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the seizures and recommend appropriate treatment options. With proper treatment, most people with absence seizures are able to manage the condition and live normal lives.

Who is more likely to have absence seizures?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are more commonly seen in children between the ages of 4 and 14, although they can occur in adults as well. In general, absence seizures are more common in girls than in boys.

The exact cause of absence seizures is not fully understood, but they are believed to be caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Absence seizures may also be associated with other underlying medical conditions, such as epilepsy or certain genetic disorders.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one is experiencing absence seizures or any other type of seizure. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the seizures and recommend appropriate treatment options. With proper treatment, most people with absence seizures are able to manage the condition and live normal lives.

What is the incidence of absence seizures?

The incidence of absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, is estimated to be approximately 2-8 per 100,000 individuals per year. These seizures are more commonly seen in children between the ages of 4 and 14, although they can occur in adults as well. In general, absence seizures are more common in girls than in boys.

It’s important to note that the incidence of absence seizures can vary depending on a variety of factors, including age, gender, underlying medical conditions, and other factors. It’s also possible that some cases of absence seizures go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed as other conditions.

How can absence seizures be overcome?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, can be managed with medications to control seizures, such as ethosuximide, valproic acid, or lamotrigine. These medications work by reducing the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. In some cases, a combination of medications may be needed to control seizures effectively.

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed. In some cases, other interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy or biofeedback may be recommended to help manage the symptoms of absence seizures.

With proper treatment and management, most people with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures. However, it’s important to continue regular medical care and follow a treatment plan to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Do absence seizures go away on their own?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, do not typically go away on their own without treatment. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and without proper treatment, they can persist or even worsen over time.

If left untreated, frequent absence seizures can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to concentrate and learn, and may lead to other complications. In addition, untreated seizures can increase the risk of injury or accidents.

With proper treatment and management, most people with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures. Treatment typically involves medications to control seizures, lifestyle changes, and regular medical monitoring.

If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing absence seizures or any other type of seizure, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests and recommend treatment options based on your individual needs and medical history.

What triggers absence seizures?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

1-Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger seizures in some people.

2-Lack of sleep: Lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns can increase the risk of seizures.

3-Hyperventilation: Rapid breathing or hyperventilation can trigger seizures in some people.

4-Flashing lights: Certain visual stimuli, such as flashing lights or patterns, can trigger seizures in some people.

5-Medications: Some medications can increase the risk of seizures, particularly if they interact with other medications or are not taken as directed.

6-Other medical conditions: Underlying medical conditions such as epilepsy, brain tumors, or genetic disorders can increase the risk of seizures.

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to identify any triggers or underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to seizures. Lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, and other interventions may be recommended to help manage the symptoms of absence seizures and reduce the risk of future seizures.

What are the symptoms of an absence seizure?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are characterized by a sudden and brief loss of consciousness that lasts for a few seconds to half a minute. During an absence seizure, the person may exhibit the following symptoms:

1-Staring blankly into space, with a vacant look on their face.

2-Sudden stop in ongoing activities.

3-Rapid blinking or fluttering of eyelids.

4-Small muscle twitches in the face, arms, or legs.

5-Lip smacking or chewing movements.

6-Repeated movements, such as picking at clothing or fiddling with objects.

7-Momentary confusion or disorientation after the seizure ends.

8-No memory of the seizure itself.

Absence seizures typically do not cause a person to fall down or show other physical signs of a seizure. The person may not be aware that anything unusual has happened, but others may notice that they appear briefly “absent” or distracted.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of absence seizures or any other type of seizure, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests and recommend treatment options based on your individual needs and medical history.

What are the most important causes of absence seizures?

The exact causes of absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are not fully understood, but they are believed to be caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Some of the most important factors that can contribute to the development of absence seizures include:

1-Genetic factors: Some forms of epilepsy and seizure disorders have a genetic basis, and absence seizures may be inherited in some cases.

2-Brain abnormalities: Abnormalities in the structure or function of the brain can increase the risk of seizures, including absence seizures.

3-Other medical conditions: Underlying medical conditions such as brain tumors, infections, or metabolic disorders can increase the risk of seizures.

4-Medications: Certain medications, particularly those that affect the nervous system or metabolism, can increase the risk of seizures.

5-Trauma or injury: Traumatic brain injury or other types of head injury can increase the risk of seizures.

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to identify any underlying medical conditions or risk factors that may be contributing to seizures. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms of absence seizures and reduce the risk of future seizures.

How are absence seizures diagnosed?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests, such as:

1-Electroencephalogram (EEG): An EEG is a test that records the electrical activity of the brain. During an EEG, small electrodes are placed on the scalp to detect abnormal electrical activity in the brain that may be indicative of seizures.

2-Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI is a noninvasive test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain. An MRI can help identify any structural abnormalities or other factors that may be contributing to seizures.

3-Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for underlying medical conditions or other factors that may be contributing to seizures.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of absence seizures or any other type of seizure. A healthcare provider can perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of seizures and recommend appropriate treatment options. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with absence seizures are able to manage the condition and live normal lives.

What is an atypical absence seizure?

An atypical absence seizure is a type of seizure that shares some characteristics with typical absence seizures, but also includes additional symptoms. Unlike typical absence seizures, which are brief and involve a sudden loss of consciousness, atypical absence seizures are longer, typically lasting 10-30 seconds or more, and may involve some of the following symptoms:

1-Partial loss of muscle tone or a brief collapse, which may cause the person to fall down.

2-Eye rolling or deviation of the eyes.

3-Slow or irregular blinking.

4-Confusion or disorientation after the seizure ends.

5Motor automatisms, such as lip smacking, chewing, or fumbling with clothing.

Atypical absence seizures are less common than typical absence seizures and are often associated with underlying medical conditions, such as developmental delays or other neurological disorders. They are diagnosed based on a combination of medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests, such as an electroencephalogram (EEG).

Treatment for atypical absence seizures typically involves medications to control seizures, lifestyle changes, and regular medical monitoring. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to manage the condition and prevent complications.

What should I do if my child is diagnosed with absence seizures?

If your child has been diagnosed with absence seizures, there are several steps you can take to help manage the condition and support their overall health and well-being:

1-Work closely with your child’s healthcare provider: It’s important to work closely with your child’s healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. This may include medications to control seizures, lifestyle changes, and regular medical monitoring.

2-Learn as much as you can about the condition: Educating yourself about absence seizures can help you better understand the condition and how to manage it. Ask your child’s healthcare provider for information and resources, and connect with support groups or other families who have experience with the condition.

3-Create a safe environment: Make sure your home and other environments where your child spends time are safe and free from potential hazards that could increase the risk of injury during a seizure.

4-Monitor your child’s symptoms: Keep track of your child’s symptoms and any changes in their condition. This can help you and your child’s healthcare provider determine whether adjustments to treatment are needed.

5-Support your child’s overall health and well-being: Encourage your child to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including getting enough sleep, eating a nutritious diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. These steps can help manage the symptoms of absence seizures and support your child’s overall health and well-being.

Remember that with proper treatment and management, most people with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures. It’s important to continue regular medical care and follow a treatment plan to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcomes.

What can be done to prevent absence seizures?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and as such, they cannot be entirely prevented. However, there are some steps that may help reduce the frequency or severity of seizures:

1-Take medications as prescribed: Medications to control seizures are often the first line of treatment for absence seizures. It’s important to take medications as directed by your healthcare provider to help prevent seizures.

2-Manage stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can trigger seizures in some people. Learning stress-management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises may help reduce the frequency of seizures.

3-Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns can increase the risk of seizures. It’s important to ensure that you are getting enough sleep and that your sleep schedule is consistent.

4-Avoid triggers: Certain stimuli, such as flashing lights or patterns, can trigger seizures in some people. It may be helpful to identify and avoid any triggers that may be contributing to seizures.

5-Seek medical care: If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of absence seizures or any other type of seizure, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to manage the condition and prevent complications. With proper treatment and management, most people with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures.

What activities should my child with absence seizures not do?

Children with absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, may need to avoid certain activities that can trigger seizures or increase the risk of injury during a seizure. Here are some activities that may need to be avoided or modified:

1-Driving or operating heavy machinery: Children with active seizures are not allowed to drive, and those with frequent or poorly controlled seizures may also need to avoid other activities that require focus or coordination, such as operating heavy machinery or using power tools.

2-Swimming or other water activities: Swimming or other water activities may need to be avoided or modified if seizures are not well-controlled, as a seizure in the water could be dangerous.

3-Activities with a high risk of falls or head injuries: Children with absence seizures may be at higher risk of falls or head injuries during a seizure, so activities with a high risk of injury, such as climbing, biking, or skateboarding, may need to be avoided or modified.

4-Activities that cause hyperventilation: Rapid breathing or hyperventilation can trigger seizures in some people. Activities that cause hyperventilation, such as blowing up balloons or playing wind instruments, may need to be avoided or modified.

5-Activities with bright or flashing lights: Certain visual stimuli, such as flashing lights or patterns, can trigger seizures in some people. Activities with these types of stimuli, such as video games or strobe lights, may need to be avoided or modified.

It’s important to work closely with your child’s healthcare provider to determine any specific activities that may need to be avoided or modified based on their individual needs and medical history. With proper treatment and management, most children with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures.

When should absence seizures be treated?

Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, should be treated once they have been diagnosed by a healthcare provider. Treatment can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures and prevent complications

Treatment typically involves medications to control seizures, such as ethosuximide, valproic acid, or lamotrigine. These medications work by reducing the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. In some cases, a combination of medications may be needed to control seizures effectively

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of absence seizures or any other type of seizure, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. With proper treatment and management, most people with absence seizures are able to live normal lives with few or no seizures.

Can children tell the difference between daydreaming and seizures?

Children may have difficulty distinguishing between daydreaming and absence seizures, as the two can appear similar. During an absence seizure, a child may appear to be staring blankly into space and may not respond to external stimuli. Similarly, during daydreaming, a child may also appear to be lost in thought and may not be fully aware of their surroundings.

However, there are some key differences between daydreaming and absence seizures. During an absence seizure, the staring episode typically lasts for several seconds and is accompanied by a loss of awareness. The child may not remember what happened during the seizure and may experience other symptoms such as lip smacking, blinking, or slight movements of the head or limbs.

If you suspect that your child may be experiencing absence seizures or any other type of seizure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your child’s healthcare provider can help distinguish between daydreaming and seizures and provide guidance on how to manage the condition.