Locked-in syndrome

Locked-in syndrome is the highest state of unconsciousness, where a patient, although unable or speak or move anything apart from their eyes, is completely aware of their surroundings, can comprehend and respond appropriately to speech (often by blinking) and goes through normal sleep cycles. It's a very rare condition, caused when another underlying cause paralyzes all the muscles that are responsible for voluntary movement. It is usually the result when a condition damages the brain stem while leaving the higher functions of the brain intact.
Several conditions can lead to locked-in syndrome, such as traumatic brain injury, diseases of the circulatory system, medication overdose, nerve damage, stroke, and even snake bite.
Locked-in syndrome is almost impossible to treat. Electrical stimulation of the muscles can often restore some muscle function, but in most cases assistive devices are used to help the patient communicate. Full recovery is very rare.
Locked-in syndrome at Wikipedia
Category:Diseases
Category:Symptoms