Signs and Symptoms of Coma
Comas can be caused by a variety of medical conditions and can last for a few days, weeks, or even months. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of a coma, as early recognition and diagnosis are essential for the best possible outcome.
The most common signs and symptoms of a coma include:
Lack of Consciousness: The patient is unresponsive and does not respond to any external stimuli. They may appear to be asleep, but will not wake up.
Absence of Reflexes: Reflexes, such as the pupil response to light, are absent.
Loss of Motor Control: The patient may be unable to move, or may move in an uncontrolled manner.
Lack of Understanding: The patient is unable to understand what is being said to them or respond to commands.
Lack of Response to Pain: The patient will not be able to feel pain or respond to painful stimuli.
Altered Breathing Pattern: The patient's breathing may be irregular or shallow.
Diagnosis of Coma
A coma is usually diagnosed by a doctor based on a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Additional tests may be performed to determine the cause and severity of the coma. These tests may include a CT scan, MRI, EEG, or blood tests.