Staring off into space can be a harmless part of a child’s day, often linked to daydreaming or deep thought. But when these staring spells happen frequently or come with other subtle signs, it may be more than just a wandering mind. One possible cause is a neurological condition known as absence seizures.

Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatments of absence seizures in children is key to getting your child the care they may need.

what are absence seizures? 

Absence seizures, sometimes referred to as petit mal seizures, are brief episodes of altered awareness and consciousness. They most often occur in children between the ages of 4 and 14, but can also affect toddlers and babies. During an absence seizure, a child may appear to be staring blankly into space, unresponsive to their environment for a few seconds at a time.

These episodes may happen multiple times a day, sometimes going unnoticed by both the child and adults. Unlike other types of seizures, absence seizures don’t involve convulsions or dramatic physical symptoms, which is why they are often confused with zoning out or daydreaming.

symptoms of absence seizures in children

Absence seizures can be subtle and easily missed. However, they present certain hallmark signs that help differentiate them from typical inattentiveness.

• Blank staring: The most common symptom, where a child suddenly stops what they’re doing and stares ahead for a few seconds.
• Unresponsiveness: Your child may not react to your voice or touch during the episode.
• Eye fluttering or upward eye rolling: These small movements often accompany a seizure and may be mistaken for normal blinking.
• Sudden pause in activity: A child might stop mid-sentence or drop a utensil or pencil unexpectedly.
• Frequent occurrences: These spells may happen dozens of times a day, especially during quiet moments or periods of low activity.

absence seizure vs zoning out

It can be tricky to differentiate absence seizures from zoning out, but recognizing the differences is essential.

• Duration: Absence seizures typically last 10 to 20 seconds. Zoning out or daydreaming can last longer and usually resolves when someone calls the child’s name.
• Frequency: Children with absence seizures may experience episodes repeatedly throughout the day. Daydreaming tends to be less frequent.
• Responsiveness: During an absence seizure, the child cannot be brought back to attention until the seizure ends. With zoning out, a gentle prompt or question usually gets a response.
• Physical cues: Eye fluttering or subtle mouth or facial movements may appear during an absence seizure but are not part of regular daydreaming.

causes of absence seizures in children

Absence seizures are a form of epilepsy, caused by brief disruptions in brain activity. While the exact cause may vary from child to child, several factors are believed to contribute:

• Genetics: A family history of epilepsy can increase the likelihood of absence seizures.
• Brain development differences: Irregular electrical signals in the brain’s cortex can trigger seizures.
• Hyperventilation: Some children may experience an absence seizure after breathing rapidly, such as during excitement or panic.
• Underlying neurological conditions: In rare cases, absence seizures may be associated with other brain-related disorders.

absence seizures in babies and toddlers 

Absence seizures can also occur in toddlers and babies, though they are harder to identify due to limited communication and age-appropriate behavior. In infants, absence seizures may resemble a sudden stillness, subtle eye movement or momentary unresponsiveness.

If you notice unusual staring episodes or developmental delays in your toddler or baby, it’s important to bring it up with your pediatrician. Early diagnosis of absence seizures in toddlers can help prevent future learning or behavioral challenges.

absence seizure treatments

The good news is that absence seizures are treatable, especially when diagnosed early. A pediatric neurologist will typically recommend a combination of treatments based on your child’s age, seizure frequency and overall health. They may perform tests such as an EEG (electroencephalogram) to measure brain activity and confirm the diagnosis. 

medication 

Antiseizure medications are the primary treatment for absence seizures in children. These medications help reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures by stabilizing brain activity.

monitoring and follow-up 

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to track progress, adjust medication dosages and ensure optimal development. Some children may outgrow absence seizures entirely, while others may require long-term management.

school support 

Because frequent absence seizures can affect classroom learning and attention, it’s important to inform your child’s teachers and school nurse. Accommodations like extra time on tests or note-taking support may be helpful.

what happens if absence seizures go untreated? 

If absence seizures in children go undiagnosed or untreated, they can interfere with attention, memory and learning. Over time, untreated absence seizures may lead to academic difficulties, behavioral problems, and social challenges. Prompt treatment is important to minimize the long-term effects.

do absence seizures cause brain damage? 

Absence seizures themselves do not typically cause brain damage. However, frequent and untreated seizures can affect cognitive development and school performance. Managing seizures effectively helps protect your child’s overall brain health.

when to seek medical attention for staring spells 

While occasional daydreaming is normal, you should consult your child’s pediatrician if you notice the following:

• Frequent staring spells that occur multiple times a day
• Brief unresponsiveness or loss of awareness
• Eye fluttering or rolling during the episodes
• Changes in behavior or academic performance
• Sudden pauses during speech or activities

Your pediatrician may recommend you see a pediatric neurologist. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference in your child’s cognitive development and daily life. 

Our pediatric neurology team is here to guide you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment to long-term support. Schedule an appointment or call 937-641-4000.