Positional asphyxia

Positional Asphyxia

Positional asphyxia (pronunciation: pəˈzɪʃ(ə)n(ə)l æsˈfɪksɪə) is a medical condition characterized by an individual's inability to breathe due to physical positioning or restraint. This condition can occur in various situations, such as when an individual is trapped in a confined space or when physical restraints prevent normal respiratory movements.

Etymology

The term "positional asphyxia" is derived from the Latin word "positio" meaning "position" and the Greek word "asphyxia" meaning "stopping of the pulse".

Related Terms

Asphyxia: A condition of severely deficient supply of oxygen to the body that arises from abnormal breathing.
Respiration: The process of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide by the body.
Hypoxia: A condition in which there is not enough oxygen available to the body's tissues.
Suffocation: The state of being deprived of air or unable to breathe.
Respiratory distress: A severe condition indicating problems with breathing.

Causes

Positional asphyxia can occur due to various reasons, including:

Being trapped in a confined space
Physical restraints that prevent normal respiratory movements
Certain sleeping positions, especially in infants (SIDS)
Drug or alcohol intoxication, which can lead to unconsciousness and an inability to change position

Symptoms

Symptoms of positional asphyxia can include:

Difficulty breathing
Rapid breathing
Cyanosis (bluish color of the skin due to lack of oxygen)
Unconsciousness
Cardiac arrest (heart stops beating)

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of positional asphyxia involves avoiding situations that could lead to the condition, such as avoiding excessive alcohol or drug use, and ensuring that infants sleep in safe positions. Treatment typically involves removing the individual from the position causing the asphyxia and providing immediate medical attention, which may include CPR and other life-saving measures.