What you can do as a visitor

The experience of being in a coma differs from person to person. Some people feel they can remember events that happened around them while theywere in a coma, while others don't.

Some people have reported feeling enormous reassurance from the presence of a loved one when coming out of a coma.

When visiting a friend or loved one in a coma, you may find the advice below helpful:

  • when you arrive, announce who you are
  • talk to them about your day as you normally wouldbe aware that everything you say in front of them might be heard
  • show them your love and support even just sitting and holding their hand or stroking their skin can bea great comfort

Research has also suggested thatstimulating the main senses touch, hearing, vision and smell could potentially helpa personrecover from a coma.

As well as talking to the person and holding their hand, you might want to try playing them their favourite music through headphones, putting flowers in their room or spraying a favourite perfume.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018