Why do people let out a loud cry before having a seizure?

May 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
A sudden cry before a seizure may be caused by tonic contraction of the muscles in the pharynx. Generalized or focal muscle spasms and body stiffness may occur prior to a seizure; when the pharyngeal muscles become rigid, it can result in a loud cry, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as foaming at the mouth or gurgling sounds from the throat. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital and, under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as sodium valproate tablets or phenytoin sodium tablets for treatment.

Letting out a loud cry before a seizure may be caused by tonic contractions of the muscles in the pharynx. The detailed explanation is as follows:

A seizure refers to involuntary twitching or convulsions of all or part of the body's muscles due to abnormal electrical discharges in brain cells. Contributing factors include central nervous system infections, hypocalcemia, and others. Prior to a seizure, generalized or localized muscle spasms may occur, accompanied by body stiffness. When the muscles of the throat undergo tonic contraction, it may result in a sudden cry. This may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as foaming at the mouth or gurgling sounds from the throat. If not promptly managed, this condition could lead to hypoxia and increased muscular activity, potentially triggering cerebral edema or epilepsy. In addition, if vomit is aspirated into the airway, it may cause suffocation, posing a serious threat to life and health.

For this situation, it is recommended to place the patient in a lateral position, loosen their collar, and turn their head to one side to prevent saliva or vomit from entering the trachea and causing asphyxiation. Immediate medical attention at a正规 hospital is advised. Under a doctor’s guidance, appropriate medications should be administered, such as sodium valproate tablets, phenytoin sodium tablets, or carbamazepine tablets.