Signs of Cerebral Anoxia

Cerebral anoxia refers to the complete deprivation of oxygen in the brain tissues. Anoxia usually occurs when the brain receives an adequate supply of blood. According to National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, anoxia can lead to brain damage as the cells in the brain begin to die after only five minutes without oxygen. The signs of cerebral anoxia depend on the degree and the length of time the brain is deprived of oxygen. Consult your health care practitioner for appropriate diagnosis of this or other medical conditions.

Level of Consciousness

• In severe cases of cerebral anoxia, the patient is in a state of unconsciousness for periods ranging from hours to days, weeks, or months. If oxygen deprivation continues, fainting and long-term loss of consciousness may results. Continued oxygen deprivation may also results in coma, a state of unconsciousness whereby a patient cannot react with the surrounding environment.

Cognitive Deficits

• Individuals with cerebral anoxia will be inattentive, will suffer from poor judgment, and will have memory loss and poor motor coordination. If the cerebral anoxia lasts for several minutes an individual's brain cells will begin to die resulting in permanent brain damage, seizures or even death.

Cyanosis

• People with cerebral anoxia may also show the signs of cyanosis, an abnormal blue coloration of the skin. Cyanosis is easier to appreciate in those with high hemoglobin than those with anemia -- a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells.

Other Signs

• Blindness may occur as well in individuals with cerebral anoxia. Patients can see properly but can't recognize what he's seeing. Signs of psychiatric illness such as agitation and depression may also appear.