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A tonic-clonic seizure, also referred to as a grand mal seizure, causes many symptoms and adverse effects. Unlike other seizures, a tonic-clonic occurs when abnormal electrical activity strikes both sides of the brain, affecting the entire body.
Symptoms
The tonic-clonic seizure is named for its two phases: tonic and clonic. During the tonic phase, a person's limbs will stiffen. During the clonic phase, the face and limbs will begin to jerk. Other symptoms include loss of consciousness, confusion, and the loss of bowel and urinary control.
Causes
The primary cause of tonic-clonic seizures is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Other factors may contribute to the abnormal activity, including head injuries, brain tumors, stroke, genetic syndromes, family history, and alcohol abuse.
Effects
Seizures can cause many traumatic events to occur if left untreated. These include car accidents, drowning, and physical injuries caused by falling.
Time Frame
Tonic-clonic seizures typically last only two minutes. In serious cases, they can last for more than five minutes.
Treatment
Some people will experience a tonic-clonic seizure only once. For those individuals who experience repeated seizures, anti-seizure medications are prescribed.
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