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Brain injury from lack of oxygen

Also called: Hypoxic brain injury, brain injury from lack of oxygen

Brain damage from too little oxygen, after cardiac arrest, drowning, choking, or overdose.

TreatmentICU care, rehab

Overview

The brain needs a steady supply of oxygen.

Cardiac arrest, drowning, and choking are common causes.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Not waking up after an emergency
  • Confusion
  • Seizures

Less common

  • Seizures

Look up a symptom: New confusion or not acting like themselves

When to get medical care

Call 911Call 911 now for: not waking up after an emergency, confusion, seizures.
Get care todayMilder symptoms that could be early signs.
See a doctor soonQuestions about lowering your risk.

Causes

No oxygen.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Cardiac arrest
  • Overdose

Possible complications

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • MRI:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

  • Call 911
  • CPR if no breathing

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Learn CPR
  • Pool safety

Which doctor treats this

  • Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
  • They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Children: Drowning is a top cause.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Recovery varies widely.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What follow-up care do I need?
  • How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Brain injury from lack of oxygen

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.