Difference Between a Seizure & Convulsions

Seizures occur due to abnormal electrical impulses in the brain. The type of seizure depends on where in the brain the electrical impulse originates. Different types of seizures have different symptoms, including convulsions.

Convulsions

Convulsions involve violent jerking of the muscles. According to Web MD, convulsions occurring during seizures often last for 30 to 60 seconds.

Tonic-Clonic Seizures

Sometimes called grand mal seizures, tonic-clonic seizures involve loss of consciousness followed by convulsions. Patients often lose control of their bladder during the convulsions.

Myoclonic Seizures

Myoclonic seizures involve sporadic jerking movements, similar to convulsions. Movements may be slight or may be severe.

Clonic Seizures

Clonic seizures involve repetitive jerking movements or convulsions. Convulsions are similar to those involved in tonic-clonic seizures, but patients do not lose consciousness first.

Other Types of Seizures

Other types of seizures include absence seizures, characterized by a brief loss of consciousness; tonic seizures, characterized by muscle stiffness; and atonic seizures, characterized by sudden loss of muscle tone. These types of seizures do not cause convulsions.

References

• Web MD: Epilepsy Seizure Types and Symptoms
• Neurology Channel: Types of Seizures

Resources

• Epilepsy Foundation: Seizures and Syndromes