Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Mild case:
• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Poor judgment
• Poor coordination
• Euphoria
• Extreme lethargy
• Severe oxygen deprivation:
• Seizures
• Coma
• No brain stem reflexes (eg, breathing, responding to light)
• Only blood pressure and heart function reflexes are functioning

Diagnosis

The doctor must work quickly to perform a physical exam. Typically, the history is the most important factor in making the diagnosis.

Tests may include the following:

• CT scan —a scan that uses x-rays and computer software to make pictures of your brain
• MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the brain
• Electrocardiogram (EKG, ECG) —a test that records the heart’s activity by measuring electrical currents through the heart muscle
• Echocardiogram —a test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to examine the size, shape, and motion of the heart
• Blood tests, including arterial blood gases and blood glucose levels
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) —a test that records the brain’s activity by measuring electrical currents through the brain
• Evoked potentials—a test that shows whether or not the brain has an electrical response to sensations like sight and touch