Grand mal seizures

Grand mal seizures are a type of seizure that involves a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. They are also known as tonic-clonic seizures.

Causes

Grand mal seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This can be due to a variety of factors, including epilepsy, stroke, brain tumor, traumatic brain injury, or drug abuse. Certain genetic disorders can also increase the risk of grand mal seizures.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a grand mal seizure can be divided into two phases: the tonic phase and the clonic phase. During the tonic phase, the person loses consciousness and falls to the ground. The muscles become rigid, and the person may cry out. This phase usually lasts about 10 to 20 seconds. During the clonic phase, the muscles go into rhythmic contractions, alternating between flexion and extension. This phase usually lasts about one to two minutes.

Other symptoms that may occur before, during, or after a grand mal seizure include a feeling of deja vu, a sudden sense of fear or anxiety, nausea, and auras such as a strange smell or taste.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of grand mal seizures is usually based on a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Additional tests may include an electroencephalogram (EEG), which can detect abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to look for any structural abnormalities in the brain.

Treatment

The treatment for grand mal seizures usually involves medication to control the seizures. These may include anticonvulsant drugs such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, or valproic acid. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the area of the brain that is causing the seizures.

Prognosis

The prognosis for people with grand mal seizures varies. Some people may have only one seizure in their lifetime, while others may have recurrent seizures. With proper treatment, most people with grand mal seizures can lead normal lives.

See also

• Epilepsy
• Partial seizures
• Absence seizures
• Status epilepticus

Grand mal seizures Resources
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