Type of seizures caused by a general irritation of the brain which is accompanied by a loss of consciousness.
Sometimes, the cause remains unknown although these seizures are highly associated to traumas, infections, malignancies, and genetic and toxic substances that irritate brain tissues.
Tonic-clonic seizures go through three phases: the first one in which the patient's muscles stiffen; the second one in which they lose consciousness and start making generalised and repetitive movements; and the third one in which the patient wakes up, become bed-ridden, slow in thought and with amnesia of what happened.
Diagnosis is made by reviewing the patient's medical history, performing a full physical examination and an electroencephalogram. Additional imaging tests may be performed to complete the study.
Treatment is based on correcting the triggering cause and antiepileptic drugs, which also help to prevent further episodes.
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