Causes of Coma
There are many things that can cause coma or other states of unconsciousness. Some of the causes are treatable and reversible, and others are not. Some of them are focal processes—localized abnormalities that exist only in one part of the brain; others are diffuse processes that affect large parts of the brain.
Focal Processes and Coma
Focal processes that are localized to a specific spot in the brain and can lead to coma include: brain hemorrhage, an abnormal flow of blood that occurs in a specific place in the brain; ischemic stroke, a stroke due to the obstruction of a blood vessel in the brain; a brain tumor; and brain abscesses, infections in the brain.
Diffuse Processes and Coma
Diffuse processes that are widespread and affect large parts of the brain include the following:
- Head trauma associated with an increased intracranial pressure
- Various toxins, including poisons, alcohol and other drugs (e.g., barbiturates, opiate narcotics, sedatives, amphetamines, cocaine, aspirin)
- Metabolic abnormalities that lead to either elevated or reduced glucose levels in the blood
- Liver or kidney failure
- Hypoxia (poor oxygenation)
- Imbalance of electrolytes (substances like salts that are found in the blood and tissues and play essential roles in normal body function)
- Central nervous system infections (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis)
- Hemorrhage in one of the membranous layers covering the brain
- Seizure disorders
- Extreme elevation in blood pressure
Psychiatric Cause for Coma
Sometimes, it is difficult to know if a person's unresponsiveness is due to psychiatric problems rather than a medical illnesses.
