Suffocation

Suffocation results when oxygen-containing air is prevented from entering the lungs. Suffocation may be caused by complete blockage of the airway in CHOKING; blocking of the nose and mouth by, for example, a plastic bag or pillow; or liquids blocking the airway, as in drowning. It may also occur if smoke and other gases in the air prevent enough oxygen reaching the lungs, or if inhaled poisons interfere with absorption of oxygen from the lungs into the blood.

Immediate action is needed to prevent brain damage or death from suffocation.

Symptoms and signs

These depend on the cause of suffocation, and may include

• laboured, noisy breathing
• swollen head and neck veins
• blueness of face, fingers, toes
• other skin colour change
• pulse fast and progressively weaker
• restlessness and confusion
• unconsciousness.

First aid treatment

1. Remove anything covering the mouth and nose - a plastic bag should be torn open - and attempt to remove anything obstructing the airway. If the victim has been suffocated by liquids, smoke or fumes, follow action for DROWNING or inhaled poisons.
2. If the casualty is unconscious, place in the lateral position, check the airway, breathing and pulse and begin expired air resuscitation (EAR) or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.
3. Seek medical aid urgently.
4. If the casualty is or becomes conscious, monitor airway, breathing and pulse frequently until help arrives.