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Coma

Definition

• A coma is a deep and prolonged state of unconsciousness that results from injury (especially to the head); disease (such as encephalitis or uncontrolled diabetes); hypoxia or anoxia (from suffocation or near-drowning, for example); or exposure to toxic and/or poisonous substances.

• A person who is affected with a coma is called comatose.

Additional Info

Coma is the body's least responsive level of consciousness before death. Approximately 70% of patients that lapse into coma die without regaining normal consciousness. Comas may last from a few hours to years.

Comas outwardly resemble a state of deep sleep, but are actually quite more complex. A good working definition is that a coma is a state of unresponsiveness from which an individual has not yet been aroused.

MSDS Relevance

MSDS's usually list coma as a symptom of acute (short-term) exposure to a material. Any person who suffers unconsciousness for any reason should seek prompt medical evaluation.

A number of symptoms may (or may not) precede the comatose state, depending on the nature of the chemical and one's level of exposure. These can include dyspnea, stupor, vertigo/dizziness, malaise, lethargy etc. Read the MSDS for information about symptoms that may indicate exposure.

Books Available

• "Coma, A Healing Journey: A Guide for Family Friends and Helpers", Paperback, 300 pages, 1999. Estimated price $18.86. Info and/or order.
• "In a World of Their Own", Hardcover, 200 pages, 1997. Estimated price $80.25, includes over 100 coma patient's recollections during their comatose state. Info and/or order .
• "Coma and Impaired Consciousness: A Clinical Perspective", paperback, 672 pages, 1997. Estimated price $69.00. Clinician and neurology student guide to managing comas, including therapeutic advances. Info and/or order .

Further Reading

• Mihai D. Dimancescu, M.D's article What is Coma? at comarecovery.org.
• PBS television's Nova did an episode on comas.
• Evaluation of coma at the Univeristy of Queensland.
• Traumatic head injury and coma links at Wake Forest University.
• Stupor and Coma at the Merck Manuals Home Edition.
See also: asphyxiation, neurotoxin, syncope.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.