Absence seizures, also known as absences or complex partial epilepsies, are a specific type of neurological disorder that mainly affects children, although they can also manifest in adolescents and adults. These crises are characterized by momentary and sudden loss of consciousness, where the person appears to be briefly disconnected from their environment. Although they are usually less known than other types of epilepsy, absence seizures can have a significant impact on the daily life of the individual who experiences them.
Causes of Absence seizures
Absence seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Unlike other forms of epilepsy, in absence seizures there is no generalized discharge throughout the brain, but rather the abnormal activity is localized in a specific region. This activity triggers the characteristic symptoms of absence, such as loss of consciousness and temporary disconnection.
The exact causes of absence seizures are not completely clear, but it is believed that they may be related to genetic factors. and environmental. Some research suggests that certain genes may predispose a person to developing this type of epilepsy, although other factors, such as brain injuries, infections or problems in brain development, may also play a role.
Symptoms of seizures absence
The symptoms of absence seizures are usually subtle and may go unnoticed by those around the affected person. Some of the most characteristic signs of an absence seizure include:
- Sudden stopping in the middle of an activity.
- Staring or lost in space.
- Brief episodes of absence, lasting only a few seconds.
- No memory of what happened during the seizure.
These symptoms can be confused with distractions or lack of attention, especially in the case of school-aged children. However, it is important to be aware of the frequency and duration of these episodes, as they may indicate the presence of an underlying disorder.
Diagnosis and treatment of absence seizures
The Diagnosing absence seizures is often challenging, as the symptoms can be difficult to detect and confused with other disorders. Generally, a thorough evaluation by a neurology specialist is required, which may include:
- Detailed medical history of the patient and family.
- Neurological examinations to evaluate brain activity.
- Imaging tests, such as MRI, to detect possible brain abnormalities.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) to record the electrical activity of the brain during a seizure episode.
Once the diagnosis of absence seizures is confirmed, treatment may include a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies. Antiepileptic medications, such as ethosuximide and valproic acid, are often prescribed to control abnormal activity in the brain and prevent new seizures from occurring.
In addition to drug treatment, other measures may be recommended to help. to manage absence crises, such as:
- Education and psychological support for the patient and their family.
- Lifestyle modification, including sleep regulation and stress reduction.
- Regular follow-up with a specialist to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment and make adjustments as necessary.
In some cases, when conventional treatment fails To control absence seizures, more invasive options, such as brain surgery, may be considered. However, this type of intervention is usually reserved for more serious situations that are resistant to traditional treatment.
Psychological and emotional impact of absence seizures
In addition to the physical challenges represented by absence crisis, it is important to consider its impact on the mental and emotional health of the affected individual. People who frequently experience these seizures may experience feelings of shame, guilt, or anxiety, especially if the seizures occur in social situations.
The fear of having an absence seizure in public may lead the person to isolate themselves, limiting their interactions and participation in daily activities. This, in turn, can affect their quality of life and psychological well-being in the long term.
For this reason, it is essential to provide comprehensive support to people with absence crises, addressing not only the aspects medical aspects of the disease, but also the psychological and emotional aspects. Psychological therapy, patient group support, and education about epilepsy can be valuable resources to help people cope with the challenges that come with this condition.
Conclusions
In Summary, absence seizures are a specific type of epilepsy that is characterized by brief episodes of disconnection and loss of consciousness. Although they are less known than other forms of epilepsy, absence seizures can have a significant impact on the daily lives of those who experience them, both physically and emotionally.
It is essential to seek specialized medical help if you experience them. suspects the presence of absence seizures, since early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of patients. Furthermore, it is important not to neglect the psychological and emotional component of the disease, providing the necessary support so that affected people can face the challenges that arise.