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What Causes Sudden Altered Alertness After Waking Up?

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Posted on Fri, 19 Feb 2016
Question: Two healthy adults living in the same apartment develop confusion, somnolence the same morning. ER workup, including MRI, LP, EEG, blood work (including carboxyhemoglobin) negative. Other possible environmental causes?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Toxic substances, drugs overdose.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Since MRI and LP were negative, neurological disorders are excluded for now.

Toxicology screening is important to evaluate any possible toxic substances such heavy metals poisoning.

Paint fumes also should be considered if it was used any.

Substances such benzodiazepines overdose or drugs, alcohol etc.

Urine dipstick needed also besides toxicology screening.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Note: For further follow-up it is advisable to consult an emergency medicine specialist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4500 Questions

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What Causes Sudden Altered Alertness After Waking Up?

Brief Answer: Toxic substances, drugs overdose. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. Since MRI and LP were negative, neurological disorders are excluded for now. Toxicology screening is important to evaluate any possible toxic substances such heavy metals poisoning. Paint fumes also should be considered if it was used any. Substances such benzodiazepines overdose or drugs, alcohol etc. Urine dipstick needed also besides toxicology screening. Hope you found the answer helpful. Let me know if I can assist you further. Greetings.