A coma is not contagious. If an infection is the cause of coma, the infection may sometimes be contagious. Basic vital functions, such as breathing and blood pressure, are maintained when possible. A person may need a ventilator , or artificial breathing machine, and medications to maintain blood circulation. Oxygen , fluids given through a tube in a vein, which is called an IV, and close monitoring of the person are done routinely.
Further treatment is directed at the cause, if known.
When the cause is not known, certain treatments may be give right away in the hope that they may work. For example, glucose, a form of sugar, may be given through an IV in case the person has low blood sugar. Naloxone, a drug that can reverse a heroin overdose, may be given in case this is the cause. Once the initial tests are back, the cause can often be discovered and more specific treatment can be given. For example, those with a subdural hematoma may need surgery.