Gauging a Coma
What you may not about comas is that there is a ranking system used to determine how severe one is. The ranking system is based on a scale known as the “Glasgow Coma Scale.” It is based on a numerical system that ranks unconscious people, and the rank assigned reflects how extreme the coma is. Tests are typically done for responsiveness, and the results of these tests determine what numbers are assigned to each patient. The rankings help in determining the next steps for treatment.
Basic Glasgow Coma Scale
Pupil Coma Indicators
Sometimes, pupils are used to determine if a person is in a comatose state. While this is well known, some persons have a misconception about how this works. It is believed that both pupils need to be dilated to indicate that a person is comatose. However, someone in a coma can have a single dilated pupil. The most accurate test that can be performed is that which uses light. A lack of reaction to light is one of the best indicators of a coma.
Dilated Pupil
