Stun Guns May Cause Seizures

Author: Canadian Medical Association Journal
Published: 2009/03/17
Contents: Summary - Main - Related Publications

Synopsis: Report shows that a taser shot to the head may result in brain-specific complications. Until now, most reports of taser-related adverse events have understandably concentrated on cardiac complications associated with shots to the chest," write the authors. Our report shows that a taser shot to the head may result in brain-specific complications.

Main Digest

Until now, most reports of taser-related adverse events have understandably concentrated on cardiac complications associated with shots to the chest," write the authors. Our report shows that a taser shot to the head may result in brain-specific complications.

Stun guns, in certain circumstances, may result in brain-specific complications such as seizures, according to a new case report published in CMAJ www.cmaj.ca/press/pg625.pdf.

An analysis of an incident where a previously well police officer in his 30s was mistakenly hit by a taser shot with 2 barbs in the upper back and head meant for a suspect indicates that seizures may occur and should be considered an adverse event related to the use of these devices.

After the officer was hit, he collapsed and lost consciousness, not breathing, eyes rolled upward, foaming at the mouth, arms and legs jerking for about 1 minute and then confused for many minutes afterward. These symptoms "differentiate the episode from the usual transient incapacitation induced by tasers," write Dr. Richard Wennberg and coauthors from Toronto Western Hospital and the University of Toronto.

A neurologic assessment of the patient also diagnosed mild traumatic brain injury and post-concussion syndrome related to head impact from the taser shot or the fall to the ground during the seizure.

"Until now, most reports of taser-related adverse events have understandably concentrated on cardiac complications associated with shots to the chest," write the authors. "Our report shows that a taser shot to the head may result in brain-specific complications."

📢 Discover Related Topics


👍 Share This Information To:
𝕏.com Facebook Reddit

Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer

Disabled World is an independent disability community founded in 2004 to provide disability news and information to people with disabilities, seniors, their family and/or carers. See our homepage for informative reviews, exclusive stories and how-tos. You can connect with us on social media such as X.com and our Facebook page.

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/news/canada/stun-guns-seizures.php">Stun Guns May Cause Seizures</a>

Cite This Page (APA): Canadian Medical Association Journal. (2009, March 17). Stun Guns May Cause Seizures. Disabled World. Retrieved March 19, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/news/canada/stun-guns-seizures.php

Disabled World provides general information only. Materials presented are never meant to substitute for qualified professional medical care. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.