10 Critical Factors To Know About Absence Seizures

Absence seizures are a type of seizure that results in staring off into space, similar to daydreaming. The lapse in awareness is considered a generalized onset seizure and can go months without being recognized as a medical condition. Most absence seizures come on quickly and do not last for more than twenty seconds; however, they are common in children and can be worrisome for concerned parents. Here are ten crucial facts to know about absence seizures.

10. Definition

An absence seizure, also called a petit mal seizure, is characterized by a short period of “spacing out” staring into space. It is caused by brief abnormal electrical activity in a person’s brain. An absence seizure can occur on both sides of the brain at the same time, which is known as a generalized onset seizure. It usually only affects a person’s awareness of their present conditions and ends on its own with immediate recovery.

9. Types

There are two main types of absence seizures: typical and atypical absence seizures. Both types are short in duration and may be mistaken for daydreaming. Typical seizures are more common than atypical. They occur when a person suddenly ceases their activity and stares off into space. They may have a blank expression, and their eyes may turn upwards. They do not last more than ten seconds. Atypical seizures last up to twenty seconds and are characterized by a change in movement and muscle tone, such as smacking the lips, chewing, and repeated blinking.