Is Your Child ‘Zoning Out’ Too Often? Know All About Absence Seizures And Management Tips

Is your child zoning out frequently? It might be more than daydreaming. Learn about absence seizures, their symptoms, and expert-recommended management tips to support your child’s health.

Your child is looking at you, seemingly attentive, when suddenly they drift into a blank stare, unresponsive for a few seconds. You call their name, but they don’t seem to hear you. Just as quickly, they snap back to reality, unaware of the moment that just slipped by.

If this scenario sounds familiar, your child might not just be daydreaming, they could be experiencing “absence seizures”. Often mistaken for lack of focus or “zoning out,” these brief episodes can go unnoticed but may require attention and proper management.

We at OnlyMyHealth connected with an expert, Dr.Divya Ghai Chopra, Psychiatrist, De-addiction Specialist, Mindheal Clinics, Dehradun, to better understand what absence seizures are, who is at risk, its types and what can parents do to manage it in their child.

What Are Absence Seizures?

Dr Ghai says, "It is a kind of epilepsy in a child wherein a child suddenly loses consciousness, takes pauses in conversations and later starts off from where they drifted off. This happens because they have no awareness of their episodes.” Absence seizures are most frequently seen in children between the ages of 4 and 14, though older teenagers and adults can also experience them.

These seizures are often mistaken for daydreaming or inattentiveness. Since attention issues are common in children, and daydreaming is typical in classroom settings for various reasons, distinguishing between a true absence seizure and simple daydreaming can be challenging.

Types of Absence Seizures

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, there typically are two types of absence seizures.

Typical Absence Seizures

Typical absence seizures are the most common type. During these episodes, the person abruptly stops any ongoing activity without warning. They may appear to be staring blankly into space or have a vacant expression. Sometimes, the eyes roll upward, and the eyelids may flutter. These seizures are brief, usually lasting no more than 10 to 20 seconds. After the episode, the person may experience a brief moment of confusion but quickly returns to their normal state.

Atypical Absence Seizures

Atypical absence seizures differ because they tend to last longer, begin and end more gradually, and may involve additional symptoms. These seizures also begin with staring, typically accompanied by a blank expression. However, changes in muscle tone and additional movements are often present. These can include:

• Repeated blinking or fluttering of the eyelids
• Lip-smacking or chewing motions
• Finger rubbing or other repetitive hand movements

Upon being asked if absence seizures can be a cause for concern, Dr Ghai answered that it can morph into other epileptic issues.

Expert Management Tips For Parents

To effectively manage absence seizures in children, Dr. Ghai suggests the following strategies;

Identify Triggers

Dr. Ghai recommends that parents stay vigilant about identifying and minimising potential triggers for absence seizures. Some common triggers, according to Dr. Ghai, are exposure to sudden bright lights and excessive screen time.

Ensure Your Child Is Sleeping Properly

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is essential. Children should get adequate sleep each night, as fatigue and sleep deprivation can increase the likelihood of seizures. Establishing a bedtime routine and ensuring a calm, distraction-free sleep environment can help improve sleep quality.

Supervise Your Child’s Activities

Close supervision of your child is important, particularly during activities that could become hazardous if a seizure occurs, such as swimming or cycling. Teachers, caregivers, and other family members should be informed about your child’s condition to provide appropriate support and ensure safety.

Regulate Blood Glucose Levels By Maintaining Proper Diet

Dr. Ghai emphasises the importance of keeping blood sugar levels within a normal range. Significant fluctuations in blood glucose, whether too high or too low, can potentially trigger seizures. A balanced diet with regular meal times can help maintain steady glucose levels and reduce seizure risk.

Takeaway

While it’s easy to dismiss these moments as simple distraction, recognising the signs of absence seizures early can make a world of difference. With expert advice, consistent monitoring, and proactive care, you can help your child navigate this condition. Don’t let these covert episodes go unchecked, a little awareness can turn confusion into confidence and ensure your child gets the support they need.

Source: onlymyhealth.com, Areeba Shakeb