Which of the following can be an early sign of local anesthetic overdose?

Twitching is an early sign of local anesthetic overdose due to its association with neurological symptoms. When a local anesthetic is administered, toxicity can manifest in the central nervous system if the drug enters the bloodstream in excessive amounts. Early neurological symptoms of local anesthetic toxicity commonly include disorientation, visual disturbances, and muscle twitching or fasciculations. This twitching is caused by the overstimulation of the central nervous system, indicating that the local anesthetic is potentially affecting areas responsible for motor control.

Recognizing twitching as an early sign is crucial because it allows for timely intervention to prevent progression to more severe symptoms like seizures, loss of consciousness, or respiratory depression, which are signs of more advanced toxicity. Understanding the sequence of symptoms helps practitioners respond appropriately to prevent serious complications.