GENERALIZED EPILEPSY

Generalized epilepsy is a neurological condition in which seizures begin simultaneously on both sides of the brain. It is often genetic and usually starts in childhood or adolescence. Common symptoms include sudden loss of consciousness, staring spells, muscle stiffening or jerking, and in some cases, abrupt falls due to loss of muscle control.

There are several types of generalized seizures. Absence seizures involve brief periods of staring or unresponsiveness, often mistaken for daydreaming. Tonic-clonic seizures, previously known as grand mal seizures, cause a combination of muscle stiffening followed by rhythmic jerking, usually with loss of consciousness. Myoclonic seizures are characterized by quick, sudden muscle jerks, typically in the arms or legs. Atonic seizures cause a sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to unexpected collapses or falls. Tonic seizures involve sudden stiffening of muscles, while clonic seizures feature rhythmic jerking movements without the initial stiffening phase.

Diagnosis is usually made using an electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain imaging. Treatment commonly involves anti-seizure medications, and in some cases, dietary therapies or other advanced options may be considered.