Generalised Seizures

Generalised seizures are bilaterally symmetrical without focal onset. One subtype, the grand mal attack, is characterised by loss of consciousness and by stereotyped motor activity. This kind of seizure typically comprises three stages:

1) A tonic stage, in which the body stiffens and breathing stops;

2) A clonic stage, in which there is rhythmic shaking; and

3) A postseizure, also called postictal depression, during which the patient is confused. About 50% of these seizures are preceded by an aura.

The other subtype, petit mal attack is a loss of awareness during which there isno motor activity except for blinking, turning the head, or rolling the eyes.