If you would like to talk to someone about epilepsy, our trained advisers are here to help.
What happens during a tonic seizure?
If a tonic seizure starts in both sides of the brain, all your muscles tighten and your body goes stiff. If you’re standing, you may fall to the floor. Your neck will extend, your eyes open wide and roll upwards. Your arms may raise upwards and your legs stretch or contract. You may cry out and stop breathing during the seizure.
If a tonic seizure starts in one side of the brain, your muscles tighten in just one area of the body.
How long do tonic seizures last?
Tonic seizures usually last between three seconds and two minutes.
What happens after a tonic seizure?
Once a tonic seizure has ended, your muscles relax. You might feel sleepy or confused afterwards.
How can someone help me during a tonic seizure?
Our short online first aid course shows you what tonic seizures can look like, and how to help when someone has one. Visit tonic seizure first aid.
Tonic seizure first aid
Watch this short video of a tonic seizure and how to help.
This information has been produced under the terms of the PIF TICK. The PIF TICK is the UK-wide Quality Mark for Health Information. Please contact website@epilepsy.org.uk if you would like a reference list for this information.
Was this article helpful?
Here to support you
Send us your question
Send a question to our trained epilepsy advisers. (We aim to reply within two working days).
Sign up for the latest updates from Epilepsy Action
"*" indicates required fields