Child Zoning out inquiry

[LSRobin]

I have a 7-year old who about last year in Kindergarten started displaying odd behavior of zoning out. We first noticed this behavior when doing homework and reading. I think it has gotten worse into 1st grade. And i have witnessed this behavior not just during studying/learning/reading times but also while she plays video games and on the soccer field in action. She'll just stop and leave reality for a few seconds followed by a few seconds of disorientation before figuring out where she is.

I've asked her what she remembers or imagines during her episodes. She remembers absolutely nothing. I'm getting concerned the longer this continues and worsens in frequency. I couldn't trust her to drive a car ever. She'd inexplicably drive the vehicle off the road or into oncoming traffic for sure.

Does anyone have any thoughts as to what might be going on with her or who we should seek out professionally?

Much appreciated.

[LSRobin]

Thank you very much for your responses. The pediatrician did agree with this diagnosis. Now if only a child neurologist can fit us in sometime in the next four months. Children's Mercy is booked through August right now.

[Sandman2]

   I agree with RockRose and Annie.  I would make an appointment as soon as possible with your pediatrician.

[RockRose]

I agree.  This sounds exactly like absence epilepsy to me.  

[AnnieBrooke]

Please also read up on petit mal seizures or "absence seizures."  They can happen in childhood and be outgrown, or they can be a cousin of epilepsy and be treated with medication.  The below is from the Mayo Clinic's site:
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Absence seizure — also known as petit mal — involves a brief, sudden lapse of consciousness. Absence seizures are more common in children than adults. Someone having an absence seizure may look like he or she is staring into space for a few seconds.

Compared with other types of epileptic seizures, absence seizures appear mild. But they can be dangerous. Children with a history of absence seizure must be supervised carefully while swimming or bathing because of the danger of drowning. Teens and adults may be restricted from driving and other potentially hazardous activities.

Absence seizures usually can be controlled with anti-seizure medications. Some children who have absence seizures also have grand mal seizures. Many children outgrow absence seizures in their teen years.
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If you think this is what is happening, definitely talk to her pediatrician.

[AnnieBrooke]

Ask at the school, to find a name of a recommended professional.  This could just be a reaction to shake off stress, or a way of deeply thinking about something, but if you seriously think she is leaving the present for a minute (akin to passing out), see a children's specialist.  Another place to ask is at her pediatrician's.