Understanding Seizure Types
Absence Seizures
An absence seizure can briefly interrupt an activity or conversation. It may appear as a pause or vacant stare.
About this information
ESCO reviews this information regularly. It supports learning and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Discuss your own care with your healthcare provider.
What happens?
Absence seizures are generalized seizures that briefly affect consciousness. The person may miss what happens around them and have no memory of the interruption.
Small movements, such as fluttering eyelids or repeated mouth movements, may occur. “Petit mal” is an older name.
Typical absence
The seizure usually lasts seconds, begins and ends suddenly, and is followed by a quick return to the activity.
Atypical absence
The beginning and ending are less abrupt. Slumping, small jerks or slower activity may occur.
Support understanding.
Repeated interruptions can affect learning. Respond patiently and repeat missed information.
Staring can have several causes. A response to touch or a name cannot establish the diagnosis.