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In this Article

• Epilepsy and an overview of the types of seizures
• Types of generalized seizures (including grand mal)
• Absence seizures
• Myoclonic seizures
• Clonic seizures
• Tonic seizures
• Atonic seizures
• Types of partial seizures
• Simple partial seizures
• Complex partial seizures
• Focal seizure that evolves into a generalized convulsive ("grand-mal") seizure
• Patient Comments: Seizures - Type of Partial Seizure
• Find a local Neurologist in your town
• Seizures Symptoms and Types Index

Absence seizures cause a short loss of consciousness (just a few seconds) with few or no symptoms. The patient, most often a child, typically interrupts an activity and stares blankly. These seizures begin and end abruptly and may occur several times a day. Patients are usually not aware that they are having a seizure, except that they may be aware of "losing time."

Myoclonic seizures consist of sporadic jerks, usually on both sides of the body. Patients sometimes describe the jerks as brief electrical shocks. When violent, these seizures may result in dropping or involuntarily throwing objects.

Clonic seizures are repetitive, rhythmic jerks that involve both sides of the body at the same time.

Tonic seizures are characterized by stiffening of the muscles.

Atonic seizures consist of a sudden and general loss of muscle tone, particularly in the arms and legs, which often results in a fall.

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