Loss of consciousness in Glendale, or anywhere for that matter, isn’t something to take lightly. If you’re at work, you may need to file a worker’s compensation claim, if you’re out in public, you may be eligible for certain benefits, and if you’re at home, you want to find out the cause so you can prevent it from happening again. Most people don’t lose consciousness without reason, so you will need to see your doctor, either at the emergency room or in the office, right away to rule out any dangerous health problems and prevent future problems from affecting your life. Here’s what you should know if you ever lose consciousness.
What is Loss of Consciousness in Glendale
Understanding what loss of consciousness is can be your best starting point, whether you experienced it or someone you love is dealing with the issue. Basically, the person will look like they are sleeping and won’t respond to outward stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights or physical shaking or tapping. Fainting occurs with loss of consciousness that lasts for just a few seconds, but longer periods of being unconscious sometimes result in stopping breathing or having a very faint pulse, at which time medical attention is vital.
Causes of Losing Consciousness
Like many other things, there are many causes of becoming unconscious and finding the cause of the issue is important for creating a treatment plan or for preventing it from happening again. Large amounts of drugs or alcohol that are ingested in a short period of time are some of the most common factors that lead to a loss of consciousness. Other contributors are a car accident, excessive blood loss, an injury to the head or chest, low blood pressure, lack of adequate blood flow to the brain, low blood sugar levels, seizure, stroke, heart problems, dehydration or hyperventing.
Signs someone is About to Become Unconscious
In many cases, there are some indications that predict that you or someone around you is about to lose consciousness. You might notice sudden trouble responding when spoken to or you could see slurred speech. Your heartbeat may speed up, you might become confused or you could be lightheaded or dizzy. If you or someone close to you is experiencing such symptoms, quick action can prevent an injury when loss of consciousness does occur.
What to Do When Someone Loses Consciousness
When someone around you loses consciousness, you can perform basic first aid when necessary. If the person has woken up, you can ask them their name, the date and how old that person is to assess whether there is any further confusion that may require medical attention. A wrong answer suggests that there is a problem. You should always call 911 if this happens or if the person doesn’t regain consciousness within a few seconds. Check to be sure the person is breathing and that their airways are clear. Do not move the person in case there has been a spinal injury and try to keep the person warm until medical help arrives. If you are able to catch the person when they lose consciousness, lower them gently to the ground to help prevent injuries. If the person is choking, begin CPR immediately. Never give a person who has lost consciousness anything to eat or drink or put a pillow under their head. Additionally, don’t leave the person alone or slap or splash water on their face. Other reasons to call 911 when a person loses consciousness is if they are having a seizure, lose control of the bowels, is elderly, is pregnant not breathing or is injured in any way.
Treatment for Loss of Consciousness
Because losing consciousness can be caused by so many factors, seeing a doctor, whether you or someone close to you wakes up quickly or not, is important. There may be a health condition that contributed to the loss of consciousness, such as chronic low blood pressure, low blood sugar, lack of adequate fluid intake, diabetes and other issues. Finding out the root of the issue can help guide your doctor toward an appropriate treatment plan.
Prognosis and Complications to Know About
Losing consciousness for extended periods of time can result in a coma or brain damage. Undergoing CPR while unconscious can lead to broken or damaged ribs, which will need to be repaired. Choking can lead to death if it isn’t resolved quickly. In all cases of loss of consciousness, prompt medical attention ensures the best prognosis.
If you or a loved one is at risk of losing consciousness or have a medical condition that can cause the problem, be sure you wear a medical alert bracelet and are prepared for the risk as best as possible, especially if you live alone.
