Locked-in syndrome is a condition in which a person is entirely paralyzed but can still see, hear, and think as they did before. People with locked-in syndrome are typically only able to communicate through eye movements. Understanding How Locked-In Syndrome Occurs Brainstem strokes are one of the most common causes of locked-in syndrome. Doctors often… Read More
Are There Different Types of Locked-In Syndrome?
There are three different types, called categories, of locked-in syndrome. When doctors diagnose someone with the condition, the medical professional will evaluate their abilities and impairments to determine which category their condition falls into. These categories include: Classic form Incomplete form Total form In general, those with the incomplete form of locked-in syndrome retain the… Read More
Is There A Cure Or Treatment For Locked-In Syndrome?
Understanding Locked-In Syndrome Locked-in syndrome occurs when there is damage to the brainstem, the part of the brain that controls motor function and autonomic functions. This may happen because of a stroke, traumatic brain injury, poisoning, drug use, or disease. Locked-in syndrome typically involves: Loss of motor function, causing quadriplegia Inability to communicate verbally Full… Read More
Why Strokes Are Frequently Misdiagnosed in Emergency Care
Emergency departments are designed to respond quickly to a wide range of conditions, many of which present with overlapping symptoms. Stroke can be particularly difficult to identify because its signs are not always obvious or consistent. Our stroke misdiagnosis lawyers work with families trying to understand what happened during those critical early hours. Our role… Read More
How Do Doctors Make a Diagnosis of Locked-In Syndrome?
Doctors can run a series of tests to rule out other conditions and determine brain function to confirm a locked-in syndrome diagnosis. Diagnosing this condition is often difficult, and could take weeks, months, or even years before doctors become aware of a patient’s cognitive awareness. In many cases, doctors only diagnose a patient after the… Read More
How Medical Consent Works for Patients With Locked-In Syndrome
In the chaotic, confusing early days after a locked-in syndrome diagnosis, medical decisions need to be made. Treatments are discussed. Procedures are recommended. Risks and benefits are explained. And a pressing question emerges: How does medical consent work when a patient cannot speak or move? Understanding how consent functions in the context of locked-in syndrome… Read More