VEGETATIVE STATE

SYMPTOMS

A person who is experiencing a vegetative state has suffered brain damage. They are unable to think because they lack cognitive function. However, because their brain stem is still functional, the individual may:

• Have basic responses
• Open their eyes
• Control heart rate and breathing without help
• Have a sleep-wake phase
• Blink, move their eyes and tear up
• Grunt, smile, or moan

Unfortunately, they won’t be able to:

• Move with intent
• Follow things with their eyes
• Communicate or speak via gesturing or winking
• Indicate signs of awareness
• Display signs of emotion
• Deal with their surroundings

DIAGNOSIS

The following criteria must be met in order to diagnose vegetative state or unaware and unresponsive state: 

• Existence of sleep-wake phase
• No proof of reproducible, sustained, voluntary, or purposeful reactions to stimulation of smell, sound, touch, and sight
• No ability to express or comprehend language

Some of this data will come from a neurologist’s direct examination. Diagnostic testing may also be used by a neurologist to confirm the diagnosis of vegetative state. These tests may involve the following:

• EEG or electroencephalogram. This test is used to assess electrical activity in your brain.
• MRI or CT scan. These tests are used to evaluate injury on the brain.
• PET. This test is used to examine cerebral function.

TREATMENT

The vegetative state has no specific treatment. Rather, the emphasis is on providing supportive care so that the brain may repair. The individual will be closely observed for any changes or evidence of improvement. Doctors will also take precautions to avoid probable problems, such as:

• Pneumonia
• Infection
• Respiratory problems

Supportive therapy may include the following:

• Oral care
• Feeding tube
• Skincare
• Altering positions regularly to prevent discomforts
• Physical therapy

Various experts may enlist the help of family members to activate the senses and elicit a reaction by:

• Speaking with them about topics that they are familiar with.
• Listening to music, watching TV, or seeing one of your favorite movies.
• Displaying family photos

The treatment will begin in a hospital setting that specializes in acute care. The person may be transferred to a nursing facility or other long-term treatment center in some situations.