TONIC SEIZURE
What it sounds like:
TAH-nik SEE-zher
You're about to see what a tonic seizure looks like in real time. We'll walk you through the key things to remember after.
Get the seizure details
LENGTH
Tonic seizures normally last less than 20 seconds.1
MUSCLE
STIFFNESS
The individual's arm, leg, or other muscles suddenly tense/stiffen, and their hands may clench into fists or spread open.1
BACK
ARCHING
The individual's neck stiffens, and their back may arch dramatically.1,2
DURING
SLEEP
The individual will often be sleeping when they experience this type of seizure, but it can also happen when they're awake.1
AFTER THE
SEIZURE
(POSTICTAL)
The individual quickly returns to normal but may look confused or tired.1