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Coma
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Brain Nerves

Coma

A coma is a deep state of unconsciousness where an individual is alive but unable to move or respond to their environment.

Overview

A coma may occur as a complication of an underlying illness or as a result of injuries, such as a brain injury. The condition rarely lasts more than 2 to 4 weeks, though outcomes vary significantly based on the cause, severity, and site of the damage.

Recovery and Long-term Care

Individuals may emerge from a coma with lingering physical, intellectual, and psychological problems. In cases where a person remains in a coma for years or even decades, the most common cause of death is infection, such as pneumonia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery from a coma often requires extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy to regain strength and movement, occupational therapy to relearn daily tasks, and speech therapy for communication or swallowing difficulties. Psychological support is also crucial for both the patient and their family.
Individuals in a coma are at high risk for complications such as pneumonia, bedsores, blood clots, and muscle contractures. Intensive medical care is focused on preventing these issues through regular repositioning, hygiene, and monitoring.
s a person begins to emerge from a coma, they may show subtle signs of responsiveness, such as opening their eyes, following simple commands, or reacting to pain. These responses can be inconsistent at first and gradually become more sustained.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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