Loss of Consciousness
Alternate Names : Unconsciousness
What are the treatments for the condition?
Often, treatment is not needed for a simple loss of consciousness because the person usually returns to normal within
a few minutes. A
person who faints should be positioned on his or her back. The nearest witness
who feels comfortable doing so should check the person's airway and breathing.
If the person remains unconscious, first
aid for unconsciousness should be given:
Contact the emergency medical
system.
Check the victim for signs of breathing and for airway obstruction. If necessary, begin rescue
breathing and cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR.
If a spinal cord injury is
suspected, avoid moving the person except to assist breathing. If the victim is
unable to breathe, gently logroll the victim into a position so rescue
breathing can be started.
Gently restrain the victim if he or she becomes agitated.
Protect the victim from injury if
seizures occur.
Keep the victim warm.
Stay with the victim until medical help arrives.
Try to get the victim to eat or drink something sweet after regaining
consciousness if low blood sugar is suspected.
At the hospital, the medical team will try to maintain basic vital functions,
such as breathing and blood pressure. The person may need a ventilator, or artificial breathing machine, or
medications to maintain blood circulation. Oxygen,
intravenous (IV) fluids, and close monitoring of the person are done
routinely.
Further treatment is directed at the cause of the loss of consciousness. For
example, glucose, a form of sugar, may be given to a person who has low blood
sugar. If a heroin overdose is the reason for unconsciousness, Naloxone can be given to reverse it. Someone with a subdural hematoma may need brain surgery. An
individual with an infection may need antibiotics.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Side effects depend on the treatments used. For example, antibiotics may cause
allergic reactions or stomach
upset. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
After fainting, the individual usually needs no further treatment or monitoring. Further
treatment may or may not be needed for other conditions. For example, a person
with serious kidney disease, liver disease, or diabetes usually needs lifelong monitoring and
treatment.
How is the condition monitored?
A person who faints may receive a few tests to make sure there is not a serious
cause. He or she may be observed for a brief period and then sent home. Other
monitoring can be used to diagnose the cause of the condition. Any new or worsening symptoms
should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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