Overview

Coma is a state of prolong unconsciousness that can be caused by a variety show of problems — traumatic head wound, stroke, mind tumor, drug or alcohol intoxication, or even an fundamental illness, such as diabetes or an infection .
Coma is a checkup hand brake. swift action is needed to preserve life and brain officiate. Doctors normally order a series of blood tests and a mind scan to try to determine what ‘s causing the coma so that proper treatment can begin .
A coma rarely lasts longer than several weeks. People who are unconscious for a longer time might transition to a haunting vegetal state or brain death.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a coma normally include :

  • Closed eyes
  • Depressed brainstem reflexes, such as pupils not responding to light
  • No responses of limbs, except for reflex movements
  • No response to painful stimuli, except for reflex movements
  • Irregular breathing

When to see a doctor

A coma is a aesculapian emergency. Seek contiguous medical care for the person in a coma.

Causes

many types of problems can cause a coma. Some examples are :

  • Traumatic brain injuries. These are often caused by traffic collisions or acts of violence.
  • Stroke. Reduced or interrupted blood supply to the brain (stroke), can result from blocked arteries or a burst blood vessel.
  • Tumors. Tumors in the brain or brainstem can cause a coma.
  • Diabetes. Blood sugar levels that become too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia) can cause a coma.
  • Lack of oxygen. People who have been rescued from drowning or those who have been resuscitated after a heart attack might not awaken due to lack of oxygen to the brain.
  • Infections. Infections such as encephalitis and meningitis cause swelling of the brain, spinal cord or the tissues that surround the brain. Severe cases of these infections can result in brain damage or a coma.
  • Seizures. Ongoing seizures can lead to a coma.
  • Toxins. Exposure to toxins, such as carbon monoxide or lead, can cause brain damage and a coma.
  • Drugs and alcohol. Overdosing on drugs or alcohol can result in a coma.

Complications

Although many people gradually recover from a coma, others enter a vegetal state or die. Some people who recover from a coma end up with major or minor disabilities.

Complications can develop during a coma, including pressure sores, urinary tract infections, blood clots in the legs and other problems .