Seizure

Uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.

Types of seizures

Seizures may range from a simple blank stare to loss of consciousness with spasticity or muscle jerking.

Signs and symptoms#

change in alertness
unexplainable fear, panic, joy, or laughter
change in sensation of the skin, usually spreading over the arm, leg, or trunk
seeing flashing lights (can precede a seizure)
auditory changes (can precede a seizure)
hallucinations (rare occurrence)
sudden loss of muscle control and falling
muscle twitching that may spread up or down an arm or leg
muscle tension or tightening that causes twisting of the body, head, arms, or legs
shaking of the entire body
tasting a bitter or metallic flavor

Symptoms may stop after a few minutes or continue for up to 15 minutes or more.

lower and fully recline the dental chair
assure patient and staff safety without restraining the patient
administer oxygen, 6-8 L/min via a nasal canula or a mask
manage the airway
do not try to pry the mouth open
if impending seizure is recognized, safely remove all appliances and other objects from the patient’s mouth
have suction available
monitor blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rate
use a pulse oximetry, when available
if seizure last >5 minutes, administer IV benzodiazepine when available
support airway
if no amelioration of seizure activity, alert emergency medical services (EMS)
allow the patient to sleep after cessation of seizure activity
arrange for home escort
notify patient’s primary care provider
call later to check on patient