Is Locked In Syndrome Common?

What Is Locked In Syndrome?

Locked in syndrome most often occurs when there is an injury to the brainstem. In locked in syndrome, the victims suffer both quadriplegia and the inability to communicate verbally. Many need assistance with autonomic functions such as breathing. He or she remains alert and aware, and their cognitive abilities are intact.

While this syndrome has an immediate impact on quality of life, with the right tools and devices, many families can provide a fulfilling life for their loved one with locked in syndrome.

In most cases, those with locked in syndrome cannot make any sounds through the mouth. However, many families learn to communicate using eye movements, eye gaze devices, or brain-computer interface devices.

Causes of Locked In Syndrome

While damage to the brainstem through illness or injury is a known possible cause of locked in syndrome, this can occur in different ways as there are also other potential causes of locked in syndrome. Some causes of this condition may include:

• Strokes affecting the brainstem
• Brain hemorrhage involving the basilar artery which supplies blood to the brain stem
• A lesion or tumor on the brainstem
• Traumatic brain injury, often involving the brainstem
• Poisoning, including snake bites with neurotoxic venom
• Damage to nerve cells and/or the myelin sheath including osmotic demyelination syndrome

Treatment and Care for People With Locked In Syndrome

There is no known treatment or cure for locked in syndrome. Once doctors make the diagnosis, treatment generally focuses on prevention of any further injuries and improving quality of life. Most people never recover motor function, the ability to talk or make any other significant improvements.

Pursue Compensation for Locked In Syndrome

Locked in syndrome may occur because of a traumatic brain injury or medical malpractice. If someone else’s negligence caused your loved one’s condition, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for expenses and losses related to their injuries. Our legal team from Newsome Law offers free case reviews.

We can help you build a strong case to support the pursuit of compensation for a wide range of damages. This may include your expenses and losses from the initial incident, as well as ongoing care costs. Some of the most common damages in a personal injury case include:

• Medical care
• Ongoing and future care
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Related out-of-pocket costs
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish

To learn more about your eligibility to pursue compensation on behalf of your loved one diagnosed with locked in syndrome, call us today at (407) 648-5977. Our locked-in-syndrome lawyers offer free case evaluations for the families of those with locked in syndrome and similar conditions.

Read more about Rich Newsome

Rich Newsome

Catastrophic Injury Locked-In Syndrome Attorney

Rich Newsome is a dedicated attorney specializing in catastrophic injury and medical malpractice cases. With over 25 years of experience, she is committed to advocating for victims and their families, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.