Clonic convulsion is a medical term referring to a type of seizure that involves repetitive, rhythmic jerking movements of the muscles. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈklɒnɪk/ /kənˈvʌlʃən/. The first syllable, "clonic," is pronounced with the "c" being pronounced as a "k" sound and the stress falling on the second syllable. The second word, "convulsion," is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, with the "s" being pronounced as a "z" sound.
A clonic convulsion is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent, involuntary contractions and relaxation of muscles in rapid succession. It is a type of seizure that involves rhythmic jerking movements, often affecting both sides of the body symmetrically. Clonic convulsions are typically seen in patients with epilepsy or other neurological disorders.
During a clonic convulsion, the body may go through a series of repetitive, rhythmic movements such as jerking of the limbs, twitching of facial muscles, or shaking of the torso. These movements can be intense and forceful, often leading to injury or loss of control.
Clonic convulsions occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain, disrupting the normal functioning of motor neurons and resulting in uncontrolled muscle contractions. The duration of clonic convulsions may vary, lasting anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. After the episode, there is usually a period of fatigue, confusion, or disorientation known as the postictal state.
Treatment for clonic convulsions typically involves managing the underlying condition causing the seizures. Antiepileptic medications are commonly prescribed to control the frequency and intensity of convulsive episodes. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove a brain tumor or repair brain abnormalities.
However, it is important to recognize that clonic convulsion is a medical term, and a proper evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying cause of this condition.
One in which the contractions are intermittent, the muscles alternately contracting and relaxing.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "clonic convulsion" has its etymology rooted in both Latin and Greek.
The word "clonic" comes from the Greek word "kloos", meaning "violent motion" or "tumultuous noise". It was later adopted into Latin as "clonicus", retaining the same meaning. In this context, "clonic" refers to a series of rapid, rhythmic muscle contractions and relaxations that occur during certain types of seizures or convulsions.
The word "convulsion" comes from Latin and is derived from the combination of "con-" (meaning "together" or "with") and "vulsus" (meaning "a pulling or tearing"). This term was initially used to describe a sudden, violent, involuntary contraction or spasm of the muscles.