Absencekohtauksissa

Absencekohtauksissa, commonly referred to as absence seizures or petit mal seizures, are a type of generalized seizure characterized by brief, sudden lapses of consciousness. These seizures typically occur in children and adolescents, though they can affect adults as well. During an absence seizure, an individual may appear to stare blankly into space for a few seconds, sometimes accompanied by subtle motor symptoms such as blinking or lip-smacking. The person is unresponsive during the seizure and has no memory of the event afterward.

The onset of absence seizures is usually sudden, and they can occur many times a day. They are often triggered by hyperventilation. The underlying cause of absence seizures is believed to be a disruption in the brain's electrical activity, often linked to genetic factors. Diagnosis is typically made through an electroencephalogram (EEG), which can detect characteristic spike-and-wave patterns during a seizure.

Absence seizures are generally responsive to medication, with antiepileptic drugs being the primary treatment. In many cases, children outgrow absence seizures as they enter adolescence. While typically not associated with significant injury during the seizure itself, the frequent lapses in awareness can impact learning and social interactions. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing absence seizures and minimizing their effects on daily life.