TONIC CONVULSION Meaning and
Definition
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Tonic convulsion refers to a type of seizure characterized by sustained muscle stiffness or contraction. It is a sudden and involuntary contraction of the muscles that results in a rigid and stiff body posture. These convulsions typically involve the muscles of the limbs, trunk, and neck. Tonic convulsions are commonly observed in people with epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
During a tonic convulsion, there is a sudden increase in muscle tone, leading to stiffness and rigidity. This stiffening often lasts for a short period, ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes. In some cases, a person may experience multiple tonic convulsions in a single episode.
Tonic convulsions are a result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, causing an excessive synchronization of neuron firing. This abnormal activity disrupts the normal balance of signals that regulate muscle tone and movement. The exact cause of tonic convulsions can vary depending on the underlying condition or trigger, such as epilepsy, brain injury, certain medications, or genetic factors.
Treatment for tonic convulsions aims to address the underlying cause. Medications, such as antiepileptic drugs, may be prescribed to control and prevent seizures. Other treatment options include lifestyle modifications, such as stress reduction techniques or avoiding triggers that can induce convulsions. In some cases, surgical interventions may be considered to treat the underlying cause of the tonic convulsions, especially if they are resistant to medical management. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare professional are important for individuals experiencing tonic convulsions to optimize their management and quality of life.
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One in which the contraction of the muscle is continuous.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TONIC CONVULSION
- ronic convulsion
- fonic convulsion
- gonic convulsion
- yonic convulsion
- 6onic convulsion
- 5onic convulsion
- tinic convulsion
- tknic convulsion
- tlnic convulsion
- tpnic convulsion
- t0nic convulsion
- t9nic convulsion
- tobic convulsion
- tomic convulsion
- tojic convulsion
- tohic convulsion
- tonuc convulsion
- tonjc convulsion
- tonkc convulsion
- tonoc convulsion
Etymology of TONIC CONVULSION
The term "tonic convulsion" combines two words: "tonic" and "convulsion".
1. "Tonic" comes from the Greek word "tonikos", which means "that which stretches". It originated from the Greek noun "tonos" meaning "tension" or "tone". In medicine, "tonic" is often used to describe a substance that invigorates or strengthens the body.
2. "Convulsion" comes from the Latin word "convulsio", which means "violent shaking". It is derived from the Latin verb "convellere", meaning "to tear loose" or "to shake violently". In medical terms, "convulsion" refers to a sudden and involuntary contraction or spasm of muscles.
Therefore, "tonic convulsion" refers to a specific type of convulsion characterized by a sustained and rigid muscle contraction or spasm.
