Seizures are the brain's uncontrollable response to excessive electrical activity. There are two main types of seizures: tonic seizures and atonic seizures. What are the differences between them?

What is a tonic seizure?

A tonic seizure is a type of seizure that causes sudden stiffness in the body due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. When you have a seizure while standing, you may fall to the floor because it happens so suddenly.

Tonic seizures are brief and frequently occur while you are sleeping. Tonic seizures are classified into two types: focal tonic seizures, which begin in one area of the brain, and generalized tonic seizures, which occur on both sides of the brain.

What is an atonic seizure?

Atonic seizures are a type of seizure that occurs due to a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain. They are also known as akinetic seizures because they result in a sudden loss of muscle strength.

People experiencing atonic seizures are usually conscious but may fall due to a lack of muscle strength or drop items they are holding. These seizures typically begin in childhood and can last into adulthood.

Differences between tonic and atonic seizures

The main characteristics

• Tonic seizures: Characterized by sudden rigidity and sudden rigid muscle contractions.
• Atonic seizures: Causes sudden loss of muscle strength.

Physical appearance

• Tonic seizures: The body stiffens and tenses, often leading to a fall if the attack occurs while standing.
• Atonic seizures: Certain parts of the body may lose muscle strength and cause a fall, but some people may only droop or drop items they are holding.

Time of occurrence

• Tonic seizures: Tend to be short-lived and usually occur during sleep.
• Atonic seizures: More likely to occur while awake.

Age of onset

• Tonic seizures: Can occur at any age, but they are most common before the age of six.
• Atonic seizures: Usually present in childhood but can also occur in adults. This seizure is often associated with certain neurological conditions like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which begins in childhood and continues into adulthood.

Both tonic and atonic seizures can be controlled with medication. In some cases, physical therapy is required to aid recovery. If you experience a tonic or atonic seizure, seek medical attention immediately, especially if it is your first or recurring seizure.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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