In this article we will discuss about the classification and essential conditions of asphyxia.
Improper aeration of blood, if continued for some time in an intact animal, produces a series of pathological manifestations and ultimately death. These manifestations are collectively called asphyxia.
Classifications of Asphyxia:
i. General:
Such as, by occlusion of the trachea, pneumothorax, etc.
ii. Local:
As by ligature of blood vessels supplying a particular locality. The phenomenon of asphyxia has been divided into three stages, each stage showing characteristic features.
Essential Conditions of Asphyxia:
i. There must be both CO2 excess as well as O2 lack.
ii. Animal must be intact (if the Sino aortic nerves are cut, typical asphyxia will not be obtained).
iii. The improper aeration must be continued Fig. 8.42.
The phenomenon of asphyxia has been divided into three stages, each stage showing characteristic features. The whole phenomenon, from the onset to death, takes about 5 minutes. The stages, their manifestations and their causes are given in Table 8.15.
