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Alternative Names Return to topLoss of consciousness - first aid; Coma - first aid; Mental status change; Altered mental status
Definition Return to top
Unconsciousness is when a person is unable to respond to people and activities. Often, this is called a coma or being in a comatose state.
Other changes in awareness can occur without becoming unconscious. Medically, these are called "altered mental status" or "changed mental status." They include sudden confusion, disorientation, or stupor.
Unconsciousness and any other SUDDEN change in mental status must be treated as a medical emergency.
If someone is awake but less alert than usual, ask a few simple questions, such as:
Wrong answers or an inability to answer suggest a change in mental status.
Considerations Return to top
Being asleep is not the same thing as being unconscious. A sleeping person will respond to loud noises or gentle shaking -- an unconscious person will not.
An unconscious person cannot cough or clear his or her throat. This can lead to death if the airway becomes blocked.
Causes Return to top
Unconsciousness can be caused by nearly any major illness or injury, as well as substance abuse and alcohol use.
Brief unconsciousness (or fainting) is often caused by dehydration, low blood sugar, or temporary low blood pressure. However, it can also be caused by serious heart or nervous system problems. Your doctor will determine if you need tests.
Other causes of fainting include straining during a bowel movement, coughing very hard, or breathing very fast (hyperventilating).
Symptoms Return to top
The person will be unresponsive (does not respond to activity, touch, sound, or other stimulation).
The following symptoms may occur after a person has been unconscious:
First Aid Return to top
DO NOT Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call 911 if the person is unconscious and:
Call 911 if the person regains consciousness but:
Prevention Return to top
People with known medical conditions, such as diabetes, should always wear a medical alert tag or bracelet.
References Return to top
Smith J, Seirafi J. Delirium and dementia. In: Marx J, ed. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2006: chap 102.
Kothari RU, Crocco TJ, Barsan WG. Stroke. In: Marx J, ed. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2006: chap 99.Update Date: 10/6/2008 Updated by: Jacob L. Heller, MD, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, Clinic. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.