Grand mal seizures or generalized tonic-clonic seizure is a type of seizure disorder that is characterized by rigid and violent involuntary muscle contractions and loss of consciousness. Grand mal seizures are caused by an abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can disrupt the normal brain function on how it can effectively communicate. Grand mal seizures are usually associated with epilepsy, however, grand mal seizures may also be experienced once in a lifetime, by anyone at any age. Attack of grand mal seizures can sometimes result to life-threatening situations, such as an attack during driving, going up or down the stairs, in the bath tub, or falling down the floor without any support.
Brain Injury and Grand Mal Seizures
Brain injury is believed to be a possible cause for attacks of grand mal seizures. Several different medical conditions or illnesses and accidents that can involve the head can cause brain injury. The type of brain injury that is associated with grand mal seizures is known as the “anoxic brain injury”. This type of brain injury is caused by a lack or deficient oxygen supply to the brain, which causes an improper brain cell functioning. Anoxic brain injury can be a result from certain accidents, such as drowning and exposure to an environment with elevated carbon monoxide levels. There are also medical conditions that can cause anoxic brain injury, such as abnormal heart rhythms and stroke.
Other Causes of Grand Mal Seizures
Aside from brain injuries, specifically anoxic brain injury, there are still a lot of different possible causes for attacks of grand mal seizures. Another possible cause for attacks of grand mal seizures that is related to the brain is a past medical history of any type of brain infection. Here are different types of brain infection that can disrupt the normal electrical activity of the brain, which can cause grand mal seizures.
- Encephalitis
- Toxoplasmosis
- Tetanus
- Rabies
- Brain Abscess
What to Expect After an Attack of Grand Mal Seizures
After an attack of grand mal seizures, every person’s experiences may vary. However, here are what most people with grand mal seizures experience after an attack:
- Fatigue
- Sleepiness that can last for more than an hour
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Todd’s Paralysis (Weakness of one side of the body)
- Loss of Memory regarding the episode of grand mal seizures