Absence seizures usually require no first aid. They are brief and almost never associated with falling or injury. If absence seizures occur in a cluster, it may be wise to remove a child from sports, swimming, or other potentially dangerous activities during the cluster period. Very rarely, absence seizures can occur as a continuous state called "absence status epilepticus." If this happens, certain medications can be given by mouth or rectum (many patients can take medication by mouth during this type of seizure), or prompt medical attention should be sought.

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06