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Published on: 7/9/2025

What happens during an atonic seizure?

During an atonic seizure, the muscles suddenly lose strength and tone, causing the person to go limp or collapse briefly.

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Explanation

Atonic seizures, sometimes called “drop attacks,” involve a sudden loss of muscle control. Key points include:

Muscle weakness: Muscles suddenly relax, leading to a loss of posture or collapse. Duration: These seizures are usually very brief, lasting only a few seconds. Consciousness: The person may remain awake but may also lose consciousness briefly. Risk of injury: Because of sudden falls, there is a risk of injury, so safety precautions are important. Recovery: After the seizure, muscle strength returns quickly, but the person may feel weak or tired for a short time.

Atonic seizures require medical evaluation and treatment to reduce risks and improve safety.

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