What Are Absence Seizures? Complete Guide to Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
5 Sept 2025
Absence seizures are a type of generalized seizure that causes brief periods of “blanking out” or staring blankly into space. Often mistaken for daydreaming or lack of attention, these seizures are actually caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain and require proper medical attention and diagnosis.
Understanding Absence Seizures: The Basics
An absence seizure is a generalized onset seizure, meaning it begins simultaneously in both sides of the brain. These seizures cause a temporary loss of consciousness and awareness, typically lasting less than 15 seconds. Previously known as “petit mal” seizures, absence seizures are most commonly seen in children aged 5 to 15 years, though they can occur in adults as well.
Unlike other types of seizures that may cause dramatic physical symptoms, absence seizures are characterized by their subtlety. The person experiencing the seizure will suddenly stop what they’re doing and stare blankly ahead, appearing disconnected from their surroundings.
What Happens During an Absence Seizure?
During an absence seizure, several characteristic symptoms may occur such as:
Primary Symptoms:
Sudden onset of blank staring;
Complete interruption of ongoing activities;
Loss of awareness and responsiveness;
Abrupt return to normal consciousness after the episode;
Additional Symptoms:
Brief upward rotation of the eyes;
Rapid eyelid fluttering or blinking;
Lip smacking or chewing movements;
Small hand movements or fidgeting;
If speaking, speech becomes slowed or completely stops;
If walking, the person may stand motionless;
The hallmark feature of absence seizures is that they cannot be interrupted by calling the person’s name or trying to get their attention, which distinguishes them from normal daydreaming or distraction.
Types of Absence Seizures
Medical professionals recognize two main types of absence seizures:
Typical Absence Seizures
More common in children with average cognitive development;
Last 10-20 seconds on average;
Show characteristic 3-Hz spike-and-wave pattern on EEG;
Often associated with childhood absence epilepsy;
Atypical Absence Seizures
May last longer than typical absence seizures;
Often occur alongside other types of seizures;
More commonly seen in children with developmental delays;
Associated with conditions like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome;
Show different EEG patterns compared to typical absence seizures;
Causes and Risk Factors
Absence seizures are primarily caused by genetic factors that affect brain development and function. Key causes and risk factors include:
Genetic Factors:
Family history of epilepsy or seizures;
Genetic mutations affecting brain electrical activity;
Multiple genetic generalized epilepsy syndromes;
Age and Demographics:
Most common in children aged 5-15 years;
Girls are slightly more affected than boys;
Can persist into adulthood in some cases;
Triggers:
Hyperventilation;
Flashing lights or strobe effects;
Sleep deprivation;
Stress;
Certain medications.
Diagnosis: How Are Absence Seizures Identified?
Diagnosing absence seizures requires a combination of clinical observation and specialized testing such as a thorough medical history and phyisical exam, an Electroencephalogram (EEG) Test – the primary diagnostic tool to diagnose seizures and epilepsy, and other aditional tests such as an MRI brain scan to rule out structural abnormalities, blood tests to check for metabolic causes and genetic testing in some cases.
Treatment Options: Managing Absence Seizures
Treatment for absence seizures typically involves anti-seizure medications, with the goal of completely controlling the seizures. The first line medications include Ethosuximide (Zarontin) and Valproic Acid (Depakote).
When first-line medications are ineffective or not tolerated, other options include Topiramate (Topamax); Lamotrigine (Lamictal); Levetiracetam (Keppra); Zonisamide (Zonegran) and Benzodiazepines such as clobazam.
Living with Absence Seizures: Daily Life Considerations
While absence seizures don’t typically cause physical injury, certain precautions are important:
Supervision during activities like swimming or bathing;
Awareness of seizures while crossing streets or driving (for adults);
Communication with teachers and caregivers about the condition.
Long-term Outlook
The prognosis for absence seizures is generally positive:
Approximately 60-70% of children with childhood absence epilepsy outgrow their seizures by adulthood;
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment improve outcomes;
Most children can participate in normal activities with proper management and thrive!
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact a healthcare provider if:
You notice repeated episodes of blank staring or “spacing out”;
Episodes cannot be interrupted by calling the person’s name;
Staring spells are accompanied by automatic movements;
There are concerns about learning or behavioral changes;
Seizures become more frequent or severe.
Distinguishing Absence Seizures from Other Conditions
Absence seizures are often confused with:
Daydreaming: Can be interrupted, voluntary, and situation-appropriate;
Attention deficit disorders: Inattention is more sustained and situation-dependent;
Complex partial seizures: Often involve more complex movements and longer duration;
Staring spells from other medical conditions: May have different associated symptoms.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis of absence seizures is crucial because:
Different seizure types require different treatments;
Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate medication choices;
Early intervention improves long-term outcomes;
Proper diagnosis helps families understand and manage the condition.
Take Action: Be Prepared for Any Seizure Emergency
Having a seizure action plan is essential for anyone dealing with seizure disorders. Our comprehensive seizure action plan template helps you provide critical medical information, emergency contacts and step-by-step response procedures that could be essential during an emergency.
[Click Here to Download Our Free Seizure Action Plan Template – Available in English and Portuguese]
Don’t wait until an emergency happens. Download your free seizure action plan now, fill it out and share it with family, teachers and anyone who spends time with your loved one.
Conclusion
Absence seizures are a form of epilepsy that primarily affects children. While these brief episodes of staring and loss of awareness can be concerning for families, the majority of children respond well to appropriate medication and many outgrow their seizures by adulthood.
Early recognition and proper medical evaluation are essential for effective management. If you suspect that you or your child may be experiencing absence seizures, consult with a healthcare provider or neurologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
With appropriate medical care, children with absence seizures can lead normal, active lives and achieve their full potential. The key is working closely with healthcare providers to develop an effective treatment plan and maintaining regular follow-up care to monitor progress.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of seizure disorders.