|
Consciousness, decreased Considerations:
Decreased consciousness may result from a multitude of conditions including intoxication (drug, alcohol or toxin), metabolic abnormalities, seizure activity ( epilepsy ), central nervous system diseases and conditions, head trauma , shock . and decreased oxygen ( hypoxia ).
Decrease in consciousness, unconsciousness , and coma almost always require medical evaluation (with the possible exception of alcohol intoxication , simple fainting , or a previously recognized seizure disorder ).
Persistent coma is called vegetative state.
Common Causes:
- head trauma
- extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation
- seizure activity
- stroke ( CVA )
- heart failure
- arrhythmia
- diabetic coma ( diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar coma )
- hypoglycemia
- ketoacidosis
- head injury
- drug intoxication (for example, from analgesics , anticonvulsants, antihistamines, benzodiazepines, digoxin, ethanol (see ethanol overdose ), heavy metals, hydrocarbons, barbiturates, insulin, lithium, organophosphates, phencyclidine , phenothiazines-oral, salicylates - oral, or tricyclic antidepressants)
Note: There may be other causes of decreased consciousness. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for decreased consciousness, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Home Care:
In the event of a seizure (in someone else), loosen clothing, lay the person flat, and protect the person from injury by moving furniture and other objects out of the area. Although frightening, seizures are rarely harmful. For decreased consciousness caused by seizures ( epilepsy ), carry a Medic-Alert bracelet or pendant stating that you have a seizure disorder (in case you have a seizure in the future). Avoid any circumstance that has previously triggered a seizure.
For decreased consciousness caused by low cardiac output (or heart problems), consider lifestyle changes and practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress . Learn to take your own blood pressure . Ask the doctor about medication options.
Follow prescribed treatment.
Call Your Healthcare Provider If:
- unexplained, decreased consciousness occurs or is observed in someone else.
What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting decreased consciousness in detail may include: - time pattern
- When did it occur?
- How long did the episode last?
- Has it ever happened before?
- How often?
- Did the person behave the same way on previous episodes?
-
- associated conditions
- other
- What medications does the person take?
- Does the person habitually use alcohol or drugs?
- What other symptoms are also present?
The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the nervous system.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include: For seizure disorders, medications will be ordered. Surgery may be required to remove any tumor , scar, or abscess if one is causing epilepsy. Psychotherapy or counseling to understand and live with a seizure disorder may be recommended.
After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to decreased consciousness to your personal medical record.
|
