Todds paralysis is a temporary weakness or paralysis that can sometimes happen after a seizure.
The affected parts might not be able to feel sensations normally.
In some cases, vision and speech are affected.
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Todd’s paralysis typically affects one side of the body, though it can be a complete paralysis.
Rest is recommended while waiting for symptoms to improve.
They might affect one side of the face and cause slurred speech.
Less commonly, symptoms might occur in one leg or one arm alone.
Not everyone who has a seizure will experience Todds paralysis.
Causes
Todds paralysis occurs after a person has a seizure.
However, it might be linked toelectrolyte imbalanceand other potential causes of seizure.
Other factors include:
Todds paralysis also sometimes happens afterelectroconvulsive therapy(ECT) given for depression.
The facial symptoms of Todds paralysis tend to go away quickly, in about 20 minutes after ECT.
Medical history and medical exam provide the key starting points.
For example, certain rare genetic syndromes might cause some symptoms similar to Todds paralysis.
Todd’s Paralysis or Stroke?
This treatment can be key to an improved outcome after stroke but needs to be given quickly.
It’s important to ensure a diagnosis between Todd’s paralysis or stroke as quickly as possible.
Testing might include:
These tests cant diagnose Todds paralysis, but they can lead to a diagnosis.
A neurologist can provide guidance about whether epilepsy is the most likely cause of the seizure.
Treatment
Symptoms of Todds paralysis are short-lived and resolve on their own.
Seek immediate medical attention if you do experience sudden weakness.
You may need to adjust your medication jot down or dosage.
Episodes are common in people who have had a prior stroke.
They usually last between 30 minutes and 36 hours, and resolve without treatment.
The underlying cause of a seizure, however, likely does need to be treated.
Symptoms also may be due to a stroke or another cause that needs to be diagnosed or ruled out.
If you experience Todd’s paralysis, notify your healthcare provider right away to ensure appropriate care.
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