A seizure is a sudden and uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain. Most people are familiar with the type that causes shaking, twitching, or jerking movements, but there are many others that can occur. These are categorized as either focal, which begins on one side of the brain, or general-onset, which affects both sides at the same time. Here are some of the more common classifications and their symptoms.

What to Know About Distinguishing 5 Types of Seizures

1. Focal Aware

When a burst of electrical activity is secluded to one sensory or motor area, the individual will remain cognizant of themselves and their surroundings. This is referred to as a focal aware seizure. Symptoms may include numbness, a tingling sensation, strange head or eye movement, dilated pupils, tense muscles, difficulty speaking, and hallucinations.

2. Focal Impaired Awareness

With focal impaired awareness seizures, a person either partially or fully loses consciousness. They will seem awake to outsiders, but they will not be aware of their surroundings. During this state, unresponsiveness, rigidity and stillness, blank stares, and the appearance of daydreaming are common. 

3. Atonic

This is a type of generalized-onset seizure. Also known as “drop attacks,” atonic seizures cause a loss in muscle tone. Parts or all of the body can become limp. The eyelids might droop, and the head may drop forward. If an individual is standing, they could suddenly collapse. 

4. Myoclonic

Another form of generalized-onset seizure, myoclonic seizures cause spasms, which occur as sudden muscles jerk in the head, neck, and arms. This typically affects both sides of the body in clusters and can happen several times in a day, especially in the morning.

5. Tonic-Clonic

Tonic-clonic seizures can develop from any focal or generalized-onset type. They combine the symptoms of tonic and clonic seizures. During the tonic phase, the muscles stiffen, and the individual cries out, loses consciousness, and collapses. 

Next is the clonic phase, in which the arms and legs jerk rapidly and rhythmically. This can last for several minutes. If five minutes pass, the individual will need immediate emergency medical attention.
 

If you deal with or suspect you experience seizures, reach out to Neurological Consultants of Alaska LLC. Based in Anchorage and serving all of Alaska, this team of skilled neurologists specializes in treating brain- and spine-related injuries and conditions. They offer on-site neurodiagnostic testing to expedite your care, as well as personalized treatment and management plans. Call (907) 277-1623 today to schedule a consultation. For more information about their services, visit their website.