Can a twitch of the lip mean some consciousness for a brainstem-injured patient?

[uuuccc]

Hello! My relative is going into palliative care after being on 3 points on the glascow coma scale for a bit more than a week. She reached a maximum of 5 or 6 I would say. The doctors say that a secondary injury to the brainstem reversed the slow progress. Yesterday, as I was reading one of her favorite books to her even though it probably is futile, her lip twitched while she did a particularly deep inhalation (can still breathe on her own, but not perfectly). Of course the twitch is likely part of the inhalation reflex, but just for peace of mind I'd like to ask if a twitch of the lip could be a sign of consciousness? Is it worth mentioning to the nurse?

[LeopardGecko]

Hi, I didn't want to leave you without a response. I'm afraid I have no knowledge of what you are asking about but I would say that it wouldn't hurt to ask medical staff for further clarification. I'm sure they wouldn't mind talking to you about it and if it is a sign of consciousness then it would be good for them to be aware.

I hope you find some answers x

[uuuccc in reply to LeopardGecko]

I did mention it, but it doesn't really seem to be interesting to them at all. It's looking more hopeless each day. Indescribable... Thank you for replying. I wish you all the best in your own struggle.

[LeopardGecko in reply to uuuccc]

It's an incredibly tough time. Make sure you are looking after yourself x

[CLM68]

I know that I used to try and cough when I was in a coma. Have you asked them how your relative was scored at 3 on the Glasgow coma scale? Don't forget that it might not be interesting to the staff but it is to you and they should respect that ! I am sorry for what is happening you and your relative...don't forget to take time for your self and if you have a question, keep asking it until you get a response you understand and are OK with.