TABLE 2

Hypoglycemic encephalopathy, hyperventilation syndrome, and transient global amnesia

Hypoglycemic encephalopathyHyperventilation syndromeTransient global amnesia
DurationMinutesMinutesHours (usually < 24 hours)
TriggersLow blood sugar
Long-standing diabetes
AnxietyRecent stressor
SymptomsDiffuse
Sweating, anxiety, tremor, confusion, coma
May cause focal weakness
Diffuse paresthesias, anxiety, fear of dying, unsteadiness, lightheadedness
Reproducible
Amnesia for new events, repeated questioning, normal findings on neurologic examination
RecurrenceUsuallyUsuallyUncommon