R.H.
With all due respect to Laeh G. these types of Absence Seizures can occur daily. In fact, they can occur hundreds of times a day. I was diagnosed with Absence Seizures when I was 10 years old. I had been telling my parents for months that I couldn't remember parts of conversations, or some of what was taught in school. It took a while for them to catch on, but not terribly long because luckily other people in my family have seizure disorders, so my parents were familiar with the wide range of symptoms. ANyway, I had my EEG and they put me on Depakote for a few years. I'm not sure if that is still the drug of choice for this type of seizure (we're talking 20+ years ago). After about 3 years they weaned me off and I haven't had any seizure activity since.
As far as the behavior is concerned, perhaps you could consider putting her in therapy. I know it might sound extreme, but she is trying to deal with a disorder which robs her of her time and attention. She probably "ignores" her friends at times without meaning to, and I"m sure they notice it and do not like it. SHe doesn't have any control over it, it just happens to her. That would make anyone feel frustrated. I would just validate, validate, validate. Validate her frustration, give a hug and ask if she wants to tell you about why she is frustrated. Keep the lines of communication open. I realize you have to use discipline when she is out of line, but couple that with compassion and words that indicate that you understand why she is lashing out. Let her know that while her feelings of anger or frustration are understandable, the behavior is still unacceptable. Then offer other outlets for dealing with those feelings, like deep breaths, hitting the couch cusions (if that's ok with you), or jumping up and down. Even do those things with her so she can see that yo'ure on her side. I've been trying these things out with my 3 year old when she tantrums or has anxiety.It takes some practice but it has been helpful. Anyway, if you want to chat some more about the seizures feel free to send me a messege. You daughter will probably need to do a sleep-deprivation EEG which means you will deliberately deprive her of sleep the night before the test. My parents made it fun by baking and decorating cookies with me in the middle of the night. We also went for a moonlit walk around our neighborhood.
I've never heard about sugar contributing to seizure activity, but to be honest I wouldn't be surprised if it played a role. There is no harm in trying to reduce her sugar intake while you note whether or not the frequency of her seizures has changed. Her health will benefit as well, so I say, go for it. Good luck! This must be stressful for you as well. Hopefully your daughter will grow out of it like I did.