The term "grand mal" is used to describe a type of epileptic seizure that involves the entire body. The spelling of this term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): [ɡrænd mæl]. The first syllable, "grand," is pronounced with a long 'a' sound and a slightly nasal 'n' sound at the end. The second syllable, "mal," is pronounced with a short 'a' sound and a soft 'l' sound at the end. The term "grand mal" is an outdated term and has been replaced by the term "tonic-clonic" to describe this type of seizure.
Grand mal is a term used in medicine to describe a particular type of seizure known as a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. This is the most common and severe form of seizure, characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness and a convulsive episode. The term "grand mal" is derived from the French language, meaning "great illness" or "major sickness."
During a grand mal seizure, the individual may experience a variety of symptoms. The seizure typically begins with a sudden loss of consciousness, followed by stiffening of the body muscles (tonic phase), causing the person to fall. This is then followed by rhythmic jerking movements of the limbs (clonic phase), often accompanied by shallow or irregular breathing. The person may also exhibit frothing at the mouth, tongue biting, and loss of bladder or bowel control.
Grand mal seizures can be caused by different factors, including epilepsy, head injuries, brain tumors, stroke, or certain genetic conditions. They often last for a few minutes and are typically followed by a period of confusion or sleepiness known as the postictal state.
Treatment for grand mal seizures commonly involves antiepileptic medication to prevent future seizures. In severe cases or when medication proves ineffective, other therapeutic options such as surgery or vagus nerve stimulation may be considered. Proper management and timely medical attention are crucial to minimizing the impact of grand mal seizures and ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected individual.
• The typical epileptic attack, with convulsions, followed or not by coma.
• A severe, or major, attack of epilepsy, marked by convulsions, first tonic, then clonic, oscillating pupils, feeble pulse, stupor, and unconsciousness.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "grand mal" has its origins in the French language. "Grand" meaning "big" or "great", and "mal" which translates to "illness" or "sickness". Therefore, "grand mal" can be essentially translated as "great illness" or "major sickness" in English. This term has traditionally been used to denote a type of severe seizure, now known as a generalized tonic-clonic seizure.