Physiological Effects of Lack of Oxygen
Without oxygen, the body's cells become starved of energy and begin to die within minutes. Without oxygen, the heart can only beat for a few minutes before it stops. Brain damage can occur within five to ten minutes after breathing stops. After this point, an individual remains unconscious and cannot be revived.
Factors That Determine How Long a Person Can Go Without Oxygen
The amount of time a person can go without oxygen depends on several factors, including age, overall health, and location of the oxygen deprivation. Younger individuals tend to be able to survive longer without oxygen than older individuals, as their bodies are generally healthier and more able to handle an oxygen-deprived environment.
Additionally, the location of oxygen deprivation can play a role in how long a person can last without oxygen. For example, if a person is submerged in water, their body will be deprived of oxygen more quickly than if they are in a non-submerged environment.
Treatment for Oxygen Deprivation
If a person has been deprived of oxygen, the best course of action is to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment will depend on the severity of the oxygen deprivation and the length of time the individual was without oxygen. In some cases, oxygen therapy may be used to help restore oxygen levels in the body. In more severe cases, resuscitation procedures may need to be performed.
