Altered mental status history and symptoms
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Pratik Bahekar, MBBS [2]
Overview
Patient in an altered mental status may not be able to provide history. Collateral information from relatives, and out patient care providers must be attempted. As altered mental status has very diverse etiology, careful history can prover an essential tool for focused physical examination and investigations of the patient.
History and Symptoms
Following are a few clues to illicit relevant history.
History of Present Illness
- Onset, duration and progression of current illness and altered mental status.
- History of intoxication e.g. recreational drugs, alcohol.
- Environmental exposure to toxins.
- Fever
- Visual changes, seizures, syncope, changes in gait or speech
- Chest pain, palpitation, perspiration
- Nausea, vomiting, changes in bowel bladder habbits
- Changes in sleep awake cycle.
- Recent change in medication, anticoagulants, hypoglycemic agents, anticholinergic medications, sedatives and prescription pain medications and past history of overdosing.
History of Past Illness
- Past episodes of similar illness
- Past history of other illness like, chronic conditions e.g. HIV, stroke, seizures or CNS disorders, neurosurgery, psychiatric illness etc.
Family History
- Conditions causing altered mental status, seizures, psychiatric disorders, endocrine disturbances
Social History
- Living conditions and ADLs
- Access to care
- History of sexual practices
- Drug abuse[1]