Definition of Consciousness - decreased:

Decreased consciousness is reduced alertness or awareness.

Considerations:

A persistent coma is called vegetative state.

Common Causes:

Many conditions can cause decreased consciousness, including:

• Alcohol or drug intoxication
• Arrhythmia
• Central nervous system diseases
• Decreased oxygen (hypoxia)
• Diabetic coma
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Exposure to heavy metals or hydrocarbons
• Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation
• Ketoacidosis
• Head trauma
• Heart failure
• Hypoglycemia
• Infection
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Metabolic problems
• Seizures such as those related to epilepsy
• Shock
• Stroke