Physical Changes
Within 30 minutes of death, the body begins to experience physical changes, as its organs and systems shut down. The body’s temperature begins to drop, and the muscles and joints become stiff, a process known as rigor mortis. As the body cools, the skin may take on a pale or mottled appearance.
Internal Organ Changes
Once death has occurred, blood will settle in the lowest parts of the body, a process known as livor mortis. The eyes may remain open, but the pupils will become fixed due to a lack of nerve activity. The internal organs will also begin to break down, releasing gases that cause the body to bloat.
Postmortem Care
If a postmortem examination is to be performed, it will usually be done within 30 minutes of death. During this procedure, a forensic pathologist will examine the body to determine the cause and manner of death. This is done by closely examining the body and its internal organs, and may involve taking tissue samples. Once the examination is complete, the body is typically stored in a cold environment until its burial or cremation.
