coma phase of an epileptic seizure

Last reviewed 05/2021

Following the tonic-clonic phases of a classic epileptic seizure there is a phase which can be described as coma.

During this phase the patient is deeply unconscious, with complete muscular flaccidity.

Also there is absence of corneal and tendon reflexes, and extensor plantar responses.

This state may last up to several hours.

On awakening, the patient may have a headache and be dazed.