A type of epilepsy, in which someone becomes unconscious and falls down, while the muscles become stiff and twitch violently.
Type of seizure during which the patient becomes unconscious, may develop bluish discoloration (cyanosis) of the skin and lips due to oxygen lack, and experiences convulsions involving the entire body; also called a generalized seizure.
An epileptic fit, sometimes called the tonic-clonic fit, that begins when the patient falls to the ground unconscious with his muscles in a state of spasm. The lack of any respiratory movement results in a bluish discoloration of the skin and lips (cyanosis). This, the tonic phase, is replaced by convulsive movements, when the tongue may be bitten and urinary incontinence may occur (the clonic phase). Movements die away and the patient may rouse in a state of confusion, complaining of headache, or he may fall asleep.
An out-of-date and now colloquial name for a tonic-clonic seizure (in contrast to petit mal).
The former term used for tonic-clonic seizures, which are common in epilepsy, is characterized by specific features. The seizure episode might begin with warning sensations like unease or fear, known as an “aura,” lasting a few seconds. Following this, the person loses consciousness and collapses, possibly experiencing a brief pause in breathing. During the seizure, there are generalized, jerky muscle contractions. Once the seizure subsides, the muscles relax, and there could be a brief loss of bowel and bladder control. Typically, this type of seizure lasts only for a few minutes, and upon awakening, the person may have no recollection of the event.
In this primary type of epilepsy, the patient typically shouts before collapsing into unconsciousness. Initially, the entire body becomes stiff and unyielding in what is known as a tonic spasm. This state subsides relatively quickly, leading to a phase where all body muscles begin to convulse, known as a clonic spasm. This lasts for approximately two to three minutes before ceasing. Following this, the patient gradually regains consciousness, initially appearing confused and drowsy.