Generalized seizure

A Generalized seizure (pronounced: jen-er-uh-lahyzd see-zhure) is a type of seizure that affects both sides of the brain or groups of cells on both sides of the brain at the same time. This term was derived from the Latin word "generalis", which means 'relating to all, universal'.

Generalized seizures are different from focal seizures, which start in one specific part of the brain. They are further divided into several types, including absence seizures, tonic seizures, atonic seizures, clonic seizures, myoclonic seizures, and tonic-clonic seizures.

Absence seizures

Absence seizures (pronounced: ab-suhns see-zhure) are brief, usually lasting less than 15 seconds, and have symptoms that may be barely noticeable. They're commonly characterized by staring into space or subtle body movements such as eye blinking or lip smacking.

Tonic seizures

Tonic seizures (pronounced: tah-nik see-zhure) cause stiffening of the muscles. These seizures usually affect the muscles in the back, arms, and legs and may cause the person to fall to the ground.

Atonic seizures

Atonic seizures (pronounced: ay-ton-ik see-zhure) cause a loss of muscle control, which may cause the person to suddenly collapse or fall down.

Clonic seizures

Clonic seizures (pronounced: klon-ik see-zhure) are characterized by repeated or rhythmic, jerking muscle movements. These seizures usually affect the neck, face, and arms.

Myoclonic seizures

Myoclonic seizures (pronounced: my-uh-klo-nik see-zhure) usually appear as sudden brief jerks or twitches of the arms and legs.

Tonic-clonic seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures (pronounced: tah-nik-klo-nik see-zhure), previously known as grand mal seizures, are the most dramatic type of epileptic seizure and can cause an abrupt loss of consciousness, body stiffening and shaking, and sometimes loss of bladder control or biting the tongue.

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Generalized seizure