Traumatic asphyxia is a type of death that occurs after a traumatic injury involving severe compression of the chest and abdomen. It is caused by a rapid decrease in the pressure outside the chest, which results in the air in the chest being forced out. This leads to a decrease in oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues, leading to death.
Mechanism of Traumatic Asphyxia
The mechanism of traumatic asphyxia is the rapid decrease in outside pressure that occurs after a traumatic injury involving severe compression of the chest and abdomen. This decrease in pressure causes the air in the chest to be forced out, resulting in a decrease in oxygen supply to the body’s organs and tissues. This leads to a decrease in oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues, leading to death.
Risk Factors of Traumatic Asphyxia
Traumatic asphyxia has been known to occur after traumatic injuries such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and crush injuries. It is more common in young adults and children. Other risk factors include obesity, alcohol use, smoking, and drug use.
Treatment of Traumatic Asphyxia
The treatment for traumatic asphyxia is supportive care. This includes maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation, as well as providing oxygen therapy and other supportive measures. It is important to seek medical attention immediately after a traumatic injury to reduce the risk of death from traumatic asphyxia.