Stuporous; Mental status - decreased; Loss of alertness; Decreased consciousness; Alertness - decreased; Changes in consciousness; Obtundation; Coma
Definition
Decreased consciousness is reduced alertness or awareness.
Considerations
A persistent coma is called vegetative state.
Common Causes
Many conditions can cause decreased consciousness, including:
Alcohol or drug intoxication
Arrhythmia
Central nervous system diseases
Decreased oxygen (hypoxia)
Diabetic coma
Electrolyte imbalance
Exposure to heavy metals or hydrocarbons
Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation
Ketoacidosis
Head trauma
Heart failure
Hypoglycemia
Infection
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Metabolic problems
Seizures such as those related to epilepsy
Shock
Stroke
Home Care
A decrease in consciousness almost always require a doctor's attention, except perhaps when due to alcohol intoxication, simple fainting, or a previously recognized seizure disorder.
See the article on seizures for tips on how to care for a person who is having a seizure.
Persons with epilepsy or other seizure disorder should carry a Medic-Alert bracelet or pendant stating that they have the condition. Avoid any circumstance that has previously triggered a seizure.
Call your health care provider if
See medical help if someone has unexplained, decreased consciousness. Call your local emergency number (such as 911) if normal consciousness does not return quickly.
What to expect at your health care provider's office
The doctor will perform a physical examination. The exam will include a detailed look at the cardiovascular and nervous system.
The health care team will ask questions about the person's medical history and symptoms, including
Time pattern
When did the decreased consciousness occur?
How long did it last?
Has it ever happened before? If so, how many times?
Did the person behave the same way on previous episodes?
Medical history
Does the person have known epilepsy or seizure disorder?
Does the person have diabetes?
Has the person been sleeping well?
Has there been a recent head injury?
Other
What medications does the person take?
Does the person habitually use alcohol or drugs?
What other symptoms are present?
Tests that may be done include:
Complete blood count or blood differential
Electrolyte panel
CT scan or MRI of the head
ECG
EEG
Chest x-ray
Urinalysis
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the decreased consciousness.
Update Date:
8/6/2007Updated by:
Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Adam makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
