Coma
- Article
- 2021-03-07
A coma, also called a persistent vegetative state, is a deep or deep state of unconsciousness. Persistent vegetative state is not brain death. A person is living in a coma, but cannot move or react to his or her environment. Coma can occur as a complication of an underlying disease, or as a result of injuries, such as head trauma. Individuals in such a state have lost their thinking ability and awareness of their environment, but maintain their non-cognitive function and normal sleep patterns. Although people in a persistent vegetative state lose their higher brain functions, other key functions such as breathing and circulation remain relatively intact. Spontaneous movements may occur and the eyes may open in response to external stimuli. Individuals may even occasionally grimace, cry, or laugh.
Therapy
Once a person is out of immediate danger, the medical care team focuses on preventing infections and maintaining a healthy physical condition. This often includes preventing pneumonia and bedsores and providing a balanced diet. Physical therapy can also be used to prevent contractures (permanent muscle contractions) and deformities of the bones, joints, and muscles that would limit recovery for those coming out of a coma.
Prognosis
The outcome for coma and persistent vegetative state depends on the cause, severity and site of neurological damage. Individuals may come out of a coma with a combination of physical, intellectual and psychological problems that require special attention. Recovery is usually gradual, with some gaining increasing ability to respond. Some individuals never progress beyond very basic responses, but many restore full consciousness. Persons recovering from coma require close medical supervision. A coma rarely lasts longer than 2 to 4 weeks. Some patients may regain some degree of consciousness after a persistent vegetative state. Others can remain in that state for years or even decades. The most common cause of death for someone in a persistent vegetative state is infection, such as pneumonia.
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