Locked-in syndrome

Introduction The term locked-in syndrome comes from the English word “locked in” and means to include or lock up. The meaning of the term depends on the situation in which the patient finds himself. He is awake, can understand and follow conversations, but cannot move or speak. Often only vertical eye movement and closing of … Locked-in syndrome

Symptoms | Locked-in syndrome

Symptoms The symptoms that occur in Locked-In-Syndrome restrict the patient’s life in the most massive way. The affected person is not able to control his or her voluntary musculature. The paralysis affects not only the limbs, back, chest and stomach, but also the neck, throat and facial muscles. Neither speaking nor swallowing is actively possible. … Symptoms | Locked-in syndrome

Prognosis | Locked-in syndrome

Prognosis The prognosis for existing locked-in syndrome is generally poor. It is a serious disease of the nervous system, which is extremely sensitive and heals only slowly. An improvement of the symptoms can only begin after weeks or months, which requires the patience of the patient, relatives and the treating staff. Intensive treatment can improve … Prognosis | Locked-in syndrome

Symptoms | Coma vigil

Symptoms Patients who are in a persistent vegetative state appear awake at first glance, but are not able to communicate with their environment. It is impossible for them to carry out everyday activities, to eat or drink independently. Typical symptoms are automated movements, bowel and bladder incontinence, spasms in arms and legs, and retained reflexes. … Symptoms | Coma vigil

Prognosis | Coma vigil

Prognosis The prognosis for a patient with apallic coma is generally poor. Significantly less than half of the patients recover from this condition, since in most cases severe brain damage has preceded it. Nevertheless, there are various parameters that speak for a better prognosis. These include a young age of the patient, less than 24 … Prognosis | Coma vigil

Coma vigil

Introduction The so-called waking coma is a condition in which the cerebral functions fail while the functions of the brain stem, spinal cord, cerebellum and some interbrain functions are maintained. This is usually the result of severe brain damage, for example in an accident. In medicine, coma vigil is also known as apallic syndrome. The … Coma vigil