Scared

[PurpleRain-87]

Dr's are going to start bringing my close friend out of his medically induced coma tomorrow and I am scared/terrified of what wìĺĺ happen next.Is this perfectly normal?

[cat3]

The nature of awakening from coma differs from one patient to another, especially in how withdrawal from the sedation is tolerated.

Your friend's brain has been at peace whilst on strong sedation and the beginnings of awareness and physical sensations will feel alien and confusing to him.

A brain emerging from coma can't recognise self identity or exercise cognition until it has time to reorientate. So it's an unnerving time for both patient and loved ones.

But be aware that if he tolerates his new consciousness and withdrawal it will still take time for your friend to recognise his situation and those around him.

Hopefully, being pre-warned of these possibilities, you might see such issues as part of a natural process, and not so frightening...

I hope your friend emerges with the minimum of issues tomorrow m'love. Keep us updated.

Cat x

[Hidden]

Morning. It took my partner 3 days to start to show signs of waking after 2 weeks in a medically induced coma. It was taking so long we became worried she would not wake up. It doesn't take 5 minutes so be prepared for it to take some time, and they may put your friend back into a coma if there is anything they aren't happy with. They will be confused as they wake and may be aggressive or abusive. They may have to put gloves on like boxing gloves to stop them trying to pull out feeding tubes, medicine lines, etc. All this is normal and the staff will be acutely used to whatever comes and very capable, so have trust in them. The worst bit for me was not knowing "who" would be there when my partner woke. Nobody will know what any lasting effects might be, and I prepared myself for all kinds of scenarios. Having gone through this myself 12 months ago with my partner and knowing the rollercoaster ride that has been the last year, I'm more than happy to share anything of our experiences which may help you as it can be very lonely being close to them and in my case being a carer.

[skydivesurvivor]

Yes!! I was in a coma too so can’t say what family felt. It took me another 5 months in various clinics, apparently I was totally different from the old me. Took several years from learning the basics again, like a 2 year old times tables, days of week at first. He will need y support, love in so many ways! It will take time as his brain rewires. Ask loads of questions to encourage him. U will get loads of support from clinics as he progresses. It will be tough but at least y have tons of support, good luck n SMILE to frustrate the predicament!!

[Skulls]

Hi PurpleRain,

As others have said, a period of adjustment needs to be allowed. It is possible a new personality may emerge but give your friend time to re-appear. Headway has lots of material you should try to read and assimilate. I sent some to a friend of thirty years who then dumped me because he didn't like the new me. Three years later, my wife rejected me and now considers us "apart" though we still live under the same roof. I don't know why I survived - everyone seems to hate me now. I don't think I am a bad person. 😢