Absence seizures

Absence seizures (petit mal) are common in children and may often be mistaken for daydreaming. During an absence seizure the child experiences a brief interruption of consciousness and becomes unresponsive. They may appear 'blank' or 'staring' usually without any other features, except for a fluttering of the eyelids. These seizures often last for only a couple of seconds and due to their subtle nature may even go unnoticed.