Coma a state of unconsciousness caused by variety of problems

Coma is a state of prolonged unconsciousness that can be caused by a variety of problems — brain tumor, traumatic head injury, drug or alcohol intoxication, stroke, or even an underlying illness, such as diabetes or an infection. It is a medical emergency. It seldom last longer than several weeks. People who are not conscious for a longer period of time may transition to a constant vegetative state. Depending on the cause of it, people who are in a persistent vegetative state for more than one year are extremely unlikely to awaken.

Signs and symptoms:

• Closed eyes

• Depressed brainstem reflexes, such as pupils not responding to light

• No responses of limbs, except for reflex movements

• No response to stimuli that are painful, except for reflex movements

• Irregular breathing

Causes:

• Traumatic brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries, usually caused by traffic collisions or acts of violence, are common causes of it.

• Stroke. Reduced or intercepted blood supply to the brain (stroke), which may be caused by blocked arteries or a burst blood vessel, can result in it.

• Tumors. Tumors in the brain or brainstem are also one of the causes.

• Diabetes. In people with diabetes, blood sugar levels that become very high (hyperglycemia) or very low (hypoglycemia) can cause a stroke which can lead to it.

• Lack of oxygen. People who have been rescued from drowning or those who have been resuscitated after a heart attack may not awaken due to lack of oxygen to the brain.

• Infections. Infections such as encephalitis and meningitis cause swelling (inflammation) of the spinal cord, brain, or the tissues that surround the brain. Severe cases of these infections can cause brain damage.

• Seizures. Ongoing seizures are also one of the leading causes of it.

• Toxins. Exposure to toxins, such as lead or carbon monoxide can lead to brain damage.

• Drugs and alcohol. Overdosing on drugs or alcohol can result in coma.

Treatment:

Treatment varies, depending on the cause of it. A procedure or medications to relieve pressure on the brain due to brain swelling may be needed. If it is the result of drug overdose, doctors will prescribe medications to treat the condition. If it is due to seizures, doctors will give medications to control seizures.

Sometimes the cause of it can be completely reversed and the affected person will regain normal function. But if the affected person has severe brain damage, he or she may suffer permanent disabilities or may never regain consciousness. The person may enter a constant vegetative state or brain death.