Primary generalized seizures begin with a widespread electrical discharge that involves both sides of the brain at once. Hereditary factors are important in many of these seizures.

Tonic seizures are characterized by the increased tone in the body, arms, or legs make sudden stiffening movements. Consciousness is usually preserved.

Tonic seizures most often occur during sleep and usually involve all or most of the brain, affecting both sides of the body. If the person is standing when the seizure starts, he or she often will fall. Children with neurological impairments sometimes make movements that could be mistaken for tonic seizures. The QEEG should be able to tell the difference.

Other Useful links about Seizure Disorders / Epilepsy

• Seizure Disorder / Epilepsy Overview
  • Read the overview of Epilepsy and Seizure Disorder
• Warning Signs of Seizures
  • Please review the warning signs, the symptoms of a seizure occurring , and the after-seizure symptoms
• Who develops Epilepsy?
  • Epilepsy can develop in any person at any age. Learn more about who develops epilepsy and when are most people likely to get it.
• What causes Epilepsy
  • Read about how strokes, tumors, and brain injuries contribute to the causes of epilepsy
• Types of Seizures
  • Generalized Seizures
    • Simple Absence seizures
    • Atypical Absence seizures
    • Myoclonic seizures
    • Atonic seizures
    • Clonic seizures
    • Tonic-clonic seizures
  • Partial Seizures
    • Simple partial seizures
    • Complex partial seizures
    • Secondarily generalized seizures