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Doctors use these images to find abnormalities. However the methods, functions, and cultural context vary widely between societies. A CT scan uses computers and rotating X-rays to make high-resolution images of the brain. Nearly all societies are known to engage in practices that lead to altered states of consciousness. Doctors use this imaging test to evaluate the heart and lungs. This exam measures your heart’s electrical activity (such as heart rate and rhythm). This exam uses scalp electrodes to evaluate brain activity. These tests determine the health of your liver by measuring levels of proteins, liver enzymes, or bilirubin in your blood. These blood tests measures levels of sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. This test uses a blood or urine sample to detect the presence and levels of medications, illegal drugs, and poisons in your system. An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count indicates infections, such as meningitis or pneumonia.
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This blood test reveals whether you have a low hemoglobin level, which indicates anemia. In addition to your complete history and physical, the doctor may order the following tests: They’ll also ask if you have a history of abusing illegal drugs, prescription drugs, or alcohol. They’ll ask about any medications you’re taking, such as insulin or anticonvulsants. Your doctor will want to know about any medical problems you have, such as diabetes, epilepsy, or depression. If you’re in a coma, you can’t respond to any stimulus, not even pain.ĭiagnosis and treatment of decreased consciousness begins with a complete medical history and physical examination, which includes a detailed neurological evaluation. ComaĬoma is the deepest level of impaired consciousness. Stupor is a deeper level of impaired consciousness in which it’s very difficult for you to respond to any stimuli, except for pain. If you’re lethargic, you may not respond to stimulants such as the sound of an alarm clock or the presence of fire.
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Lethargy is a state of decreased consciousness that resembles drowsiness. People who are delirious are often highly agitated as well. Objectives: Previous research suggests that creativity, in the arts in particular, is associated with altered states of consciousness (ASCs) (Holt, 2007). Their emotional responses range from fear to anger. People who are delirious are often disoriented. If you’re delirious, your thoughts are confused and illogical. The most extreme form of disorientation is when you lose the memory of who you are. Loss of short-term memory follows disorientation with respect to place. This is followed by disorientation with respect to place, which means you may not know where you are. The next stage is being disoriented with respect to time (years, months, days). The first stage of disorientation is usually around awareness of your current surroundings Disorientationĭisorientation is the inability to understand how you relate to people, places, objects, and time. Levels of impaired consciousness include:Ĭonfusion is marked by the absence of clear thinking and may result in poor decision-making.