Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure
Alternate Names : Grand Mal Seizure
What can be done to prevent the injury?
By reducing excessive alcohol use, a person decreases his or her risk of seizures. However, if a person with alcoholism stops drinking completely, the risk of withdrawal seizures increases. A sudden withdrawal from certain medicines, such as phenobarbital, can also cause seizures. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's prescription for decreasing or stopping a medicine or alcohol.
Keeping blood pressure under control reduces a person's risk of seizures. It also helps prevent stroke, which can lead to seizures. People with epilepsy need to take their medicines as prescribed.
Protection against head injury is critical for all ages. Following sports safety guidelines for children, adolescents, and adults can prevent some injuries.
Many times, there is no way to prevent the onset of epilepsy. Once it is diagnosed, individuals can lower their risk of seizures by:
avoiding excess alcohol
avoiding illegal drugs, especially marijuana and cocaine
getting enough sleep
limiting intake of stimulants such as caffeine
recognizing and avoiding known factors that trigger their own seizures
seeking prompt treatment for fever and illness
taking all medicines as prescribed
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Seizures can lead to physical injury from falling. Epilepsy may interfere with school or work.
What are the risks to others?
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures are not contagious and pose no risk to others.
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