This type combines the tonic and clonic seizures. When it is a generalized tonic-clonic seizure, it can be the result of abnormal electrical discharge that involves the entire brain. In such case, the individual may lose consciousness at the onset of the seizure. The tonic-clonic seizure can affect both the children and the adults. Rarely, this type of seizure occurs in the initial six months of the infant’s life. Although some of the children may cease to have a seizure in the future, others can remain seizure-free when the medication is slowly stopped after a couple of years. The risk of more seizure occurring is based on various factors such as the EEG report and abnormalities on a neurological examination. As the individuals experiencing the tonic-clonic seizures are usually unaware of the happenings, they may require first aid and to ensure there are no injuries. If the seizure continues more than 5 minutes, it is important to obtain medical assistance immediately. A rare complication that can develop from this type of seizure includes the aspiration pneumonia or pulmonary edema in children when they inhale saliva or vomit during the seizure.
Tonic phase – This is the initial phase that includes muscle stiffness, loss of consciousness and as the result, they tend to fall heavily to the floor. Their eyes may also role back as the muscle contracts, tightening of the chest muscles and exhibit breathing difficulty. In addition, they may also bite their tongue and turn blue in the face. This phase usually lasts a minute.
Clonic phase – Following the tonic phase, the clonic features include the rapid jerking of the limbs. The elbows, legs and the head may flex and then relax. This can also include the loss of bladder or bowel control. The spasms may slowly become less as it ceases completely. As the individual slowly regains their consciousness, they may feel confused, be agitated or depressed. This type of seizure usually lasts around 3 minutes but when it continues for more than 5 minutes, medical intervention is necessary.
Diagnosis
The physician may require a detailed description of the seizure for the diagnosis. The tonic-clonic seizure is generally easy to identify. An EEG is needed to record the electrical impulse of the brain. During the seizure, the details of the EEC can help determine the cause and whether it is symptomatic. Various other diagnostic tests may also be required to identify the cause and to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment is usually based on the individual’s symptoms and their diagnosis. Various medications are available to prevent the onset of tonic-clonic seizures. Additional treatment plans can include a device known as vagus nerve stimulation, surgery or a dietary therapy.
References
http://epilepsyontario.org/about-epilepsy/types-of-seizures/tonic-clonic-seizures/
http://www.epilepsy.com/learn/types-seizures/tonic-clonic-seizures
https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/tonic-clonic-seizures#.WFbnttJ97IU