General limpness of the entire body is of even greater concern, indicating total loss of activity in certain important parts of the central nervous system. The eyes also provide important clues to the person's status. The position of the pupils, their ability to move, their size, their reaction to bright light, their ability to follow a moving object, and the appearance of the retina are all checked. Pupils of unequal size can be a sign of pressure somewhere in the brain. The doctor needs to know if the person's pupils are normally different sizes or if the person takes glaucoma medication, which can affect pupil size.
Laboratory tests give further clues about the possible reason for a person's stupor or coma.
Urine is tested for the presence of sugar and toxic chemicals. In patients who may be in a coma from a brain tumor or brain hemorrhage, emergency CT or MRI brain imaging is performed before the lumbar puncture to be sure that the pressure on the brain is not elevated. Treatment The rapid development of an altered state of consciousness is a medical emergency requiring quick attention and treatment. Diagnosing what's wrong, a prerequisite for completely effective treatment, can't always be done quickly. Oxygen is often given immediately, and an intravenous line is put in place so drugs can be given quickly.