Absence epilepsy is a common form of epilepsy that primarily affects children from age 4 – 14 years old.
This seizure disorder is characterized by brief periods of “blanking out” or lapses in consciousness. It only affects a person’s awareness during the seizure, with immediate return to baseline once seizure resolves. Absence seizures are very brief and often missed or mistaken for simple daydreaming or inattention.
What Are the Symptoms of Absence Epilepsy?
Symptoms of absence epilepsy include:
- Suddenly stopping all activity without any warning. It may look staring off into space or just has a blank look.
- The eyes may turn upwards and eyelids flutter.
- Smacking the lips or chewing motion with the mouth
- The seizures usually last 10-20 seconds.
- The person may be momentarily confused for only a few seconds but then is back to normal.
The number of absence seizures that occur daily can vary. When absence seizures happen close together or frequently throughout the day, children can lose track of what has been going on. Children who have absence seizures are not in danger during a seizure, however, they can have impacts on a child’s daily life, including disruptions in learning and social interactions.
Diagnosing absence epilepsy involves a comprehensive evaluation by a pediatric neurologist who is trained to diagnose and understand the unique needs of children. A good description of the episode from a parent, teacher, or family member or recording can be very helpful. If events sound like seizure, an EEG (electroencephalopgram) will be performed. The EEG will check for patterns of electrical activity in the brain that are usually seen in absence epilepsy. During the EEG, certain actions such as breathing fast or looking at fast flashing lights can be performed, which makes it easier to see absence seizure patterns on EEG.
The primary goal of treating pediatric absence epilepsy is to control seizures and minimize their impact on the child’s daily life. Treatment options may include antiseizure medications, lifestyle modifications, regular follow-up appointments, and access to education and support resources. The Neurology Center at MemorialCare Miller Children's & Women’s Hospital Long Beach provides comprehensive medical management and care for children with developmental conditions and neurological disorders from birth through 21 years, with continued treatment and care into adulthood.
If you suspect your child may be experiencing absence seizures, it is important to seek evaluation and guidance from a pediatric neurologist.
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