Asphyxiation due to mechanical threat to breathing due to other causes, intentional self-harm digital illustration

Asphyxiation due to mechanical threat to breathing due to other causes, intentional self-harm Save


ICD-10 code: T71.192

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Asphyxiation Due to Mechanical Threat to Breathing Due to Other Causes, Intentional Self-Harm

Asphyxiation is a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen, which can lead to serious health complications or even death. There are several ways that asphyxiation can occur, and one of them is due to mechanical threats to breathing. This may be caused by other factors or even intentional self-harm.

Some of the common causes of mechanical threats to breathing include choking, strangulation, suffocation, and compression of the chest. These can happen accidentally or intentionally, and the consequences can be severe. For instance, choking can occur when a foreign object gets lodged in the throat, making it difficult for air to pass through. This can cause the person to suffocate and lose consciousness, leading to brain damage or death.

Similarly, strangulation occurs when an object or a person's hands are used to constrict the neck, cutting off the air supply. This can cause damage to the windpipe and other internal organs, leading to asphyxiation. Suffocation, on the other hand, occurs when there is a lack of oxygen in the environment, such as in a closed space or underwater. This can cause the person to lose consciousness and eventually die.

Compression of the chest is another form of mechanical threat to breathing, which can result in asphyxiation. This can occur due to a heavy object being placed on the chest or due to trauma to the chest area. This can cause the ribs to break and puncture the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing and ultimately, asphyxiation.

Intentional self-harm is another cause of asphyxiation due to mechanical threats to breathing. This can occur through hanging, which involves using a ligature to constrict the neck and cut off the air supply. This can cause the person to lose consciousness and eventually die. Autoerotic asphyxiation is another form of intentional self-harm, which involves restricting the air supply during sexual activity to enhance pleasure. This can be extremely dangerous and can lead to asphyxiation.

  1. Asphyxiation can occur due to mechanical threats to breathing, such as choking, strangulation, suffocation, and compression of the chest.
  2. Intentional self-harm can also lead to asphyxiation, through hanging or autoerotic asphyxiation.
  3. The consequences of asphyxiation can be severe, including brain damage or death.
  4. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty in breathing or has been involved in a choking or strangulation incident.

In conclusion, asphyxiation due to mechanical threats to breathing