Petit Mal Seizure

Overview

Petit mal seizure, also known as absence seizure, is a type of epileptic seizure characterized by brief lapses of consciousness. During a petit mal seizure, a person may suddenly stop or stare blankly into space for a few seconds, after which they quickly return to their normal alert state. These seizures usually don't cause physical injury, but injury can occur during the period of lost consciousness, particularly when the person is engaged in activities like driving or biking. Petit mal seizures are more common in children than adults and can often be controlled with anti-seizure medications.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of petit mal seizure, also known as absence seizure, include a vacant stare, lip smacking, eyelid flutters, chewing motions, finger rubbing, small movements of both hands, and a sudden stop in activity without falling. These seizures typically last around 10-30 seconds and the person experiencing them may not remember the incident. They can occur frequently and may interfere with school or daily activities.

Development

Petit mal seizure, also known as absence seizure, involves brief, sudden lapses of consciousness. They are more common in children than in adults and typically don't lead to physical injury. However, injury can result during the period when the person loses consciousness, especially if the person is driving a car or riding a bike when the seizure happens. Petit mal seizures are classified as focal seizures without loss of consciousness. They don't cause a loss of consciousness but can alter emotions or change the way things look, smell, feel, taste, or sound. Some people experience deja vu during a petit mal seizure. Involuntary jerking of one body part, such as an arm or a leg, and spontaneous sensory symptoms such as tingling, dizziness, and flashing lights may also occur.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should seek medical advice if you suspect a petit mal (absence) seizure, particularly if:

1. The seizure lasts longer than 30 seconds or recurring seizures happen frequently.
2. The person experiences a prolonged period of confusion or unresponsiveness after the seizure.
3. There is no improvement or worsening of symptoms despite taking anti-seizure medication.
4. The seizures interfere with daily activities or school performance. Remember, if you observe prolonged automatic behaviors lasting minutes to hours, contact 911 or emergency services in your area, as this may indicate a condition called status epilepticus.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a petit mal (absence) seizure, the healthcare provider will likely:

1. Request a detailed description of the seizures and conduct a physical exam.
2. Perform tests such as electroencephalography (EEG), which measures electrical activity in the brain. During an EEG, the healthcare provider may observe the brain's electrical activity and look for differences in patterns during a seizure.
3. Consider brain scans, like MRI, to rule out other conditions such as stroke or brain tumor. It's important to provide a healthcare provider with any relevant symptoms, medical history, and a list of medications, vitamins, and supplements being taken. This information will help them make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of action.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Complications of petit mal seizures (absence seizures) can include:

1. Learning problems: Children with absence seizures may have difficulties with learning, memory, and attention.
2. Behavior problems: Seizures can lead to behavioral issues, such as hyperactivity, inattentiveness, or aggressiveness.
3. Social isolation: Frequent seizures and related challenges may cause social withdrawal and isolation from peers.
4. Injury during the seizure: The motions that occur during seizures can result in injury to the person having the seizure.
5. Sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP): People with epilepsy have a greater than average risk of dying unexpectedly, possibly due to heart or breathing problems related to genetic abnormalities. Proper medication management can help reduce the risk of SUDEP.
6. Depression and anxiety: Both are common among people with epilepsy. Children may also have a higher risk of developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
7. Drowning: Individuals with epilepsy have a higher risk of drowning while swimming or bathing due to the possibility of having a seizure while in the water.
8. Car accidents: Seizures that cause loss of awareness or control can be dangerous for driving or operating equipment. Driver's license restrictions may apply in certain states.
9. Problems with sleep: People with epilepsy often experience sleep problems, such as insomnia. It is important to note that while most children outgrow absence seizures, some may continue to experience them throughout their lives, and some may eventually develop other types of seizures, including generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

Treatment

Treatment for petit mal seizures typically involves the use of anti-seizure medications. These medications can help control and prevent further seizures. However, it is important to note that not all seizures require medication, and the decision to treat with medication depends on the frequency and severity of the seizures. Some children may outgrow absence seizures as they enter their teenage years. In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications such as getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can also be helpful in reducing the frequency of seizures. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for an individual with petit mal seizures.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for petit mal seizure, also known as absence seizure, you can take the following steps:

1. Keep a detailed seizure calendar: Record the time, type of seizure, and duration of each seizure. Also, note any potential triggers, such as missed medications, sleep deprivation, stress, or other relevant circumstances.
2. Seek input from observers: Gather information from family, friends, and coworkers who have witnessed your seizures. They may provide details that you may not be aware of.
3. Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions: When scheduling the appointment, inquire about any pre-appointment instructions, such as dietary restrictions.
4. Write down key personal information: Prepare a list of any major stresses, recent life changes, or personal information that may be relevant to your healthcare provider.
5. Make a list of medications, vitamins, and supplements: Create a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements that you or your child takes.
6. Bring a family member or friend: Consider bringing a loved one along to the appointment for support and to help remember important information discussed during the appointment.
7. Write down questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider, such as the likely cause of the seizures, recommended tests, treatment options, potential side effects, and alternatives to the primary treatment approach. Remember to be as detailed and accurate as possible when describing the seizures and their frequency. This information will help your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis and creating a suitable treatment plan.