What Are Seizures?
5. What Are Myoclonic and Clonic Seizures?
Myoclonic seizures may be confused with random twitches or jerks since they involve the alternating contraction and relaxation of a muscle or group of muscles. Usually, these episodes are extremely brief (seconds), and they can involve both sides of the body. In addition, during these episodes, the person affected is commonly conscious.
Clonic seizures involve the alternating contraction (stiffening) and relaxation of muscles in a sustained and rhythmical fashion. These seizures can begin in one area of the brain (focal motor) or involve both cerebral hemispheres (generalized clonic). Furthermore, clonic seizures are very rare and they might be difficult to distinguish from myoclonic seizures. However, the former involves movements that are far more regular and sustained.
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