"Slipped into a coma" refers to the sudden and unconscious state of an individual wherein they enter a prolonged period of deep unconsciousness from which they are unable to be aroused. This medical condition is characterized by a complete loss of awareness of surroundings, a lack of responsiveness to external stimuli, as well as the absence of normal voluntary body movements. When someone slips into a coma, they exhibit no signs of wakefulness, such as eye-opening or purposeful movement, and cannot be awakened through normal means.
A coma usually arises due to severe injury or dysfunction within the brain, which disrupts the normal functioning of its structures responsible for consciousness and wakefulness. The causes of a coma can include traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain hemorrhage, severe infection, drug overdose, or metabolic disorders, among others. The duration of a coma can vary significantly, ranging from a transient state lasting only a few hours or days, to a more prolonged condition that may persist for weeks, months, or even years.
Often seen as a medical emergency, the prognosis and recovery from a coma depend on several factors, such as the underlying cause, the severity of the brain injury, and the overall health of the individual. Prompt medical intervention, diagnosis, and treatment are essential in managing a coma. Intensive care, monitoring, and various interventions may be employed to support the person's vital functions and potentially awaken them from their unconscious state.
