Tonic-clonic seizures are the most common type of seizure. They occur when a person’s arms, legs, or body jerk and stiffen rapidly and rhythmically. They usually last for a few minutes and then go away.Generalized tonic-clonic seizures are also known as grand mal seizures or tonic-clonic clonic seizures. They are the most common kind of seizure and affect people of all ages.Seizures of this type can be triggered by a fever, infection, sleepiness, or no known trigger at all. The most common treatment for tonic-clonic seizures is medication.When a seizure starts, a person’s eyes may close and their head will turn to one side. They may groan or cry, or feel like they are falling to the ground. They may bite their tongue or inside of their cheek and their saliva may look a bit bloody.A person may lose control of their bladder or bowel during the seizure. If the seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes, call 911 right away to have medical help.Tonic-clonic seizures can be fatal.  Seizure Alarms Death may happen if the patient’s heart rate or breathing slows too much, if they become unable to breathe, or if they don’t recover consciousness quickly after the seizure.There are many different ways to treat tonic-clonic seizures. You and your doctor will decide what is the best approach for you.How to keep your child safe during a seizureShare this information with caregivers, coaches, and staff at your child’s school. It will help them understand what to do if your child has a seizure and how to treat it.