Atonic seizures
An atonic seizure is a sudden loss of muscle tone in the muscles that hold the body and head upright.
- The seizure occurs without warning and usually causes the person to fall down.
- Some atonic seizures may be more limited, only causing the person's head to drop for a moment.
Atonic seizures are fairly uncommon and occur mostly in people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of generalized epilepsy that begins during early childhood. (Children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome may also have tonic seizures.)
People with photosensitive epilepsy have seizures that are triggered by: flashing light bold, contrasting visual patterns (such as stripes or checks) Anti-epileptic medicines are available to reduce the risk of seizure. But people with photosensitive epilepsy should take steps to minimize their exposure to seizure triggers.
Read the Photosensitive Epilepsy article > >
People who have atonic or tonic seizures are likely to be injured when they fall. Children may have to wear helmets and restrict their activities to prevent serious injury.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
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