What are the four phases of a seizure?

The correct answer identifies the four phases of a seizure as prodrome, tonic, clonic, and postictal. These phases represent the typical progression of a seizure episode.

• The prodrome phase is the period that occurs before a seizure, often characterized by subtle symptoms such as mood changes, irritability, or unusual sensations. This phase serves as a warning and allows for potential preparation for the upcoming seizure.

• The tonic phase follows the prodrome. During this phase, the muscles stiffen and the person may lose consciousness. This stiffness can lead to the characteristic posturing seen in generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

• The clonic phase involves rhythmic jerking movements of the body, indicating a series of muscle contractions and relaxations. This phase showcases the hallmark convulsions associated with seizures.

• Finally, the postictal phase occurs after the seizure has ended. During this time, the individual may experience confusion, fatigue, and various physical symptoms as the body recovers from the activity of the seizure. The duration and intensity of this phase can vary significantly between individuals.

Understanding these phases is important for recognizing seizures and providing proper care during and after the episodes, which is crucial in emergency response situations.