Asphyxiation occurs once the body is deprived of oxygen. One of the usual causes is choking, but other health and environmental conditions such as smoke inhalation or complications while under general anesthesia are possible causes.
Indications of asphyxiation
Breathing difficulty
The characteristic indication that an individual is undergoing asphyxiation is inability to breathe normally. This can manifest as wheezing, agitation, clutching at the throat or loss of consciousness.
Oftentimes, the individual turns bluish due to the lack of oxygen and gasps for breath but could not get enough air. If an individual has difficulty breathing, call for emergency assistance right away.
Foaming
After asphyxiation, a distinctive foam will form in the airways. This occurs if the mucus in the lungs combine with air in the trachea as the individual unsuccessfully attempts to breathe. Take note that this foam can be found in the lungs or throat and typically in cases of drowning.
Injury to the neck
A distinctive sign of asphyxiation is an evident injury to the neck that prevents normal breathing. You should check for any evident blockage around the neck that disrupts with the air supply of the individual. Bruising in the neck, bleeding or a fractured neck are possible indications of asphyxiation. In addition, the individual might impose wounds on the neck with their fingernails as they scratch at the throat as an effort to breathe.
Hemorrhage
Asphyxiation often results to bloodshot eyes. The eyes might appear reddish with small-sized red or purple splotches. This condition develops due to the buildup of pressure inside the head which causes the small capillaries to rupture in the eyes. Additionally, these can also occur in the neck, face and the lungs.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on asphyxiation is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage sudden medical emergencies including asphyxiation by taking a standard first aid course with Ottawa First Aid.