Comatose Patients Aren’t Always Unresponsive
Many people believe that being in a coma implies complete unresponsiveness. However, this is not the case. As there are different types of comas, they present themselves differently. In fact, it is possible to be in a semi-comatose state. Some people are even aware of their surroundings while they are in a coma. Patients display varying levels during consciousness, and this is usually a good indicator of the severity of the comatose state. This is the reason that tests of responsiveness are used in making a diagnosis.
Minimally Conscious Coma Patient
Waking Up Isn’t Simple
The way movies portray a coma is accurate in many respects. However, there are also a few inaccurate depictions based on how real comas work. One of the most common myths that media has created is how the process of waking up from a coma works. Typically, someone transitions from fully comatose to fully awake in a second in movies. Patients show signs of “wanting to wake up” for weeks before they do in the real world. When they do awaken, they are loopy, confused, and they need assistance.
Patient Who Woke Up After 20 Years In A Coma
