Understanding Pathophysiology, 6e
Understanding Pathophysiology, 6e
6th Edition
ISBN: 9780323354097
Author: Sue E. Huether RN PhD, Kathryn L. McCance RN PhD
Publisher: Elsevier Science
Question
Book Icon
Chapter 15.1, Problem 1QC
Summary Introduction

To explain: The reason why structural and metabolic factors are capable of producing comas.

Concept introduction: Cognitive functions are managed by neural systems. These include memory or language system, attentional system, and emotive systems. These systems normally function through motor systems.

Expert Solution & Answer
Check Mark

Explanation of Solution

Consciousness results from the interaction between neurons located in the ascending reticular activating system that provides arousal; those in the cerebral cortex provide awareness. Arousal is the state of awakeness that maintains consciousness. Any alterations in the level of arousal may alter cognitive functions. A coma is an unresponsive state with an inability to respond to external stimuli and to inner requirements. It results from a diffused insult to both cerebral hemispheres and a lesion in ascending reticular activating system. It may be due to structural, metabolic, or functional factors. Structural alterations may be caused due to infection, neoplasms, congenital alterations, and degenerative changes leading to diffused or localized dysfunction. Metabolic factors may cause reduction in arousal due to loss of delivery of energy substrates. These cause hypoxia, hypoglycemia, and electrolyte disturbances, which in turn lead to dysfunction in nervous system.

Want to see more full solutions like this?

Subscribe now to access step-by-step solutions to millions of textbook problems written by subject matter experts!
Knowledge Booster
Background pattern image
Recommended textbooks for you
Text book image
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:PEARSON
Text book image
Biology 2e
Biology
ISBN:9781947172517
Author:Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi, Mary Ann Clark
Publisher:OpenStax
Text book image
Anatomy & Physiology
Biology
ISBN:9781259398629
Author:McKinley, Michael P., O'loughlin, Valerie Dean, Bidle, Theresa Stouter
Publisher:Mcgraw Hill Education,
Text book image
Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9780815344322
Author:Bruce Alberts, Alexander D. Johnson, Julian Lewis, David Morgan, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company
Text book image
Laboratory Manual For Human Anatomy & Physiology
Biology
ISBN:9781260159363
Author:Martin, Terry R., Prentice-craver, Cynthia
Publisher:McGraw-Hill Publishing Co.
Text book image
Inquiry Into Life (16th Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9781260231700
Author:Sylvia S. Mader, Michael Windelspecht
Publisher:McGraw Hill Education