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Neurological Illness

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In-Flight Medical Emergencies

Abstract

In-flight neurological emergencies are the second most common cause of diversions. Their management requires a thorough history and neurological examination in order to differentiate time-sensitive emergencies that necessitate diversion to definitive medical treatment. Blood glucose testing is important in their evaluation given that hypo- and hyperglycemia often mimic neurological conditions. Treatment of hypoxia, hypoventilation, and hypotension are key in reducing secondary neurological injuries. Given the limited diagnostic capacity available in flight, management of many neurological symptoms is supportive.

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Correspondence to Wan-Tsu W. Chang M.D. .

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Hefton, S.A., Chang, WT.W. (2018). Neurological Illness. In: Nable, J., Brady, W. (eds) In-Flight Medical Emergencies. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-74234-2_7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-74234-2_7

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-74233-5

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-74234-2

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