Tonic seizures

Healthwise
By Monica Rhodes

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Tonic seizures are fairly uncommon. They occur mostly in people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of generalized epilepsy that begins during early childhood. (Children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome may also have atonic seizures.)

When a tonic seizure occurs, the muscles in the body suddenly contract and the entire body stiffens. This occurs suddenly, without warning, and often causes the person to fall down.

People who have tonic or atonic seizures are likely to be injured when they fall. Children may have to wear helmets and restrict their activities to prevent serious injury.

Credits

Author Monica Rhodes
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Theresa O'Young, PharmD - Clinical Pharmacist
Specialist Medical Reviewer Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology
Last Updated October 29, 2007
Last Updated: 10/29/2007

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