Atonic seizures are sometimes called “drop attacks” because they happen so suddenly - one moment you’re standing or sitting, the next your muscles just give way. It can be confusing, scary, and sometimes lead to bumps or bruises. But you’re not alone, and sharing what it’s really like can help others understand and support you.
We asked young people, families, and the wider epilepsy community to describe what an atonic seizure feels like. Their words are honest, powerful, and full of insight. Whether you’re living with epilepsy, supporting someone who is, or just want to understand better - this is for you.
What is an atonic seizure?
Atonic seizures are brief but dramatic. Your muscles suddenly lose all strength, causing you to flop forward or fall to the ground. If you’re sitting or lying down, it might be harder to spot, but the sudden loss of muscle tone is always there.
You described it to us as it being like someone hitting the off switch on your muscles - you just drop, fast and without warning. It only lasts for seconds.
Here’s what you might see:
- No warning before it happens
- Sudden loss of muscle strength
- Dropping to the floor or slumping in a seat
- Head nodding or dropping forward
- Quick recovery, but sometimes confusion or tiredness afterwards
Atonic is the opposite of tonic, so instead of muscles going stiff, they go floppy. These seizures can happen in clusters and sometimes require protective gear like helmets to prevent injury.
In your words: Powerful quotes from your community
These quotes come from our social media community, the Youth Voice Network, and Young Epilepsy’s own resources - real people, real experiences, and real strength.
I used to have atonic seizures before I was put on lacosamide. I remember my first one happened during a drama performance - quite embarrassing. I was scripted to scream, which I did, and then apparently I just dropped and landed on a stack of chairs.
I only remember my drama teacher checking my head, but one of my friends said it looked like I had been picked up and thrown. When I’m sitting, it’s really just my head that drops. A neurologist watched them and said I go quite vacant, then drop, then vacant again, and then confused for a bit, but I don’t remember any of the event.
– A young person recalling their first atonic seizure and its effects
Many of my seizures have had to be ambulanced, and I feel most scared as I don’t get symptoms before. My seizures are complex but when I have them I feel like I’m just trapped. It’s like a mobile phone with loads of notifications.
– A young person describing the suddenness and overwhelming feeling of atonic seizures.
As a parent - you’re on edge ALL THE TIME!! Never left unsupervised, it became our normal for a while!
– A parent sharing the constant worry and need for vigilance.
My son’s are forceful, like someone violently pushed his head down.
– A parent describing the physical impact and risk of injury.
Descriptions from across the web
In an atonic seizure, muscles suddenly become limp. The eyelids may droop, the head may nod or drop forward, and the person may drop things. If standing, the person often falls to the ground. These seizures typically last less than 15 seconds.
Atonic seizures, also known as drop attacks, cause sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to falls and injuries. Let's understand how they affect those living with epilepsy.
An atonic seizure is a temporary loss of consciousness and muscle control after an abnormal burst of electrical activity in your brain. Injuries are common with this seizure type because many people fall down when an episode happens.
How to help someone who is having an atonic seizure
You told us what really helps when you're having a seizure, and we listened. This guidance is shaped by a powerful mix of lived experience and clinically informed expert advice, coming together to help others know what to do.
Even though these seizures only last a few seconds, someone having one still needs your help.
To help someone who is having an atonic seizure, follow these steps:
- Don’t try to catch them but do guide them down gently.
- Stay with them and make sure they’re safe.
- Be calm and reassure them.
- Make sure they’re okay and haven’t hurt themself.
- Listen to how they want to be supported.
- How they feel after the seizure can be different each time. They might be a bit confused, or they might feel okay.
Call an ambulance if they’ve seriously injured themself.
The person may have an emergency management or care plan. If they do, you should follow the instructions in their plan. Their plan may include giving them their prescribed emergency medication, but do not administer emergency medication unless you are trained to do so. If you have to call 999, stay on the line and follow the guidance of the call handler. Find out more about emergency medication.
Share your story!
If you’d like to share your thoughts on how you would describe atonic seizures, or if you have tips for others, get in touch with Young Epilepsy. Your voice can help others feel less alone and more understood.
