Unconsciousness
Alternative names:
loss of consciousness - first aid; coma - first aid
Definition:
A state of unawareness or loss
of consciousness with a lack of ability to respond.
Considerations:
Being asleep is not the same thing as being unconscious.
An unconscious person cannot cough or clear his or her throat.
This can lead to death if the airway becomes obstructed.
Common causes:
- Unconsciousness can be caused by virtually any major
illness or injury, as well as substance
abuse and alcohol use.
- Brief unconsciousness (or fainting)
is often caused by low
blood sugar or by standing too long in one place. It
can also be caused by a serious illness. If a person faints,
try to prevent him or her from falling. Lie the victim down
face up on the floor and elevate the feet about 12 inches.
Don't place a pillow under the head. Wipe the victim's forehead
with a cool cloth.
Updated Date: 02/09/00
Updated By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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