Note: hyperventilation takes place by blowing a piece of paper repeatedly. This can be done safely for 2 minutes.
A positive hyperventilation test is a loss of consciousness within 2 minutes and is characterised by: glazing over of the eyes (i.e. not able to make eye contact) , loss of consciousness, ( inability to answer questions or respond to questions or being touched) , sometimes some postural changes are noted, but not usually loss of motor control and falling to the ground. Typically the seizure is short duration and the child is able to respond within 10-20 seconds.
Absence seizures and hyperventilation: Note the child will breathe and breathe out heavily for 30 to 120 seconds. In this case the child pauses after 20 seconds of hyperventilation, is confused, dazed and moves his facial muscles in non-purposeful manner and cannot talk. This is hyperventilation leading to an absence seizure. Do not do it for more than 2 minutes.
Imitators of Epilespy: Imitators of epilepsy video
Hyperekplexia: Baby with startle attack
Sandifer syndrome: