W75-W84: Other accidental threats to breathing

W75: Accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed

Accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed is part of a group of conditions revolving around accidental occlusion of respiratory passages, causing temporary cessation of respiration - a serious event that may result in injury or fatality. This can occur when an object or material restricts or blocks the airway, hindering the capacity to breathe adquately. Accidental suffocation can be due to inadvertent covering of the nose and mouth by bedding material, while accidental strangulation may happen if something around the neck tightens unexpectedly. These incidences are mostly seen in infants and young children, though they can occur at any age. Victims of such events frequently show signs of respiratory distress, such as difficulty breathing, color changes (typically bluish discoloration of the skin), and decreased responsiveness. These conditions progress rapidly and can potentially cause severe harm to the brain and other systems due to lack of oxygen if not promptly resolved.