Why Does My Child Experience Brief, Sudden Lapses Of Consciousness?

Does your child experience a sudden stop in motion without falling?

Does your child smack his lips?

Does your child flutter his eyelids?

Does your child make chewing motions?

Does your child rub his fingers?

Does your child show small movements of both hands?

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying a sign related to absence seizures. Absence seizures are brief, sudden lapses of consciousness and are mostly found in children. Absence seizure are not dangerous and usually doesn’t lead to physical injuries. Besides, many kids outgrow the seizures in their teens. If you notice that your child regularly has a vacant stare that lasts up to 20 seconds, it may be a sign of absence seizures. The child will feel normal afterwards, like as if nothing happened, and he will also not remember the incident. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there may be no reason for concern.

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying one or two signs related to absence seizures. It may be useful to plan a visit to your child’s doctor.

Unfortunately, your child may be displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have absence seizures. It may take some time for parents to notice absence seizures in their child, because they are so brief. The first sign of absence seizures may be a decrease in your child’s ability to learn, or teachers who report that your child is daydreaming or not paying attention. Treatment often includes anti-seizure medication. However, kids often outgrow seizures in their teens. Besides, a ketogenic diet (high in fat, low in carbs) may improve seizure control. This is used only if traditional medications have no effect on seizures.