Consciousness, decreased

Alternative names:

stuporous; mental status, decreased; loss of alertness; decreased consciousness; alertness, decreased; changes in consciousness; coma

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), consult your physician.

Follow prescribed treatment.

Call your health care provider if:

• unexplained, decreased consciousness occurs or is observed in someone else.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the cardiovascular and nervous system.

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
  • Does the person have known epilepsy or seizure disorder?
  • Does the person have diabetes mellitus?
  • 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 also present?

The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the nervous system.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• blood studies (such as CBC or blood differential)
• CT scan of the head
• ECG
• EEG
• X-rays of the chest

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.

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial