Compressive asphyxia

A stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, claimed 41 lives, including nine children. Most deaths were caused by compressive asphyxia, a fatal condition in overcrowded situations.

What is it?
Compressive asphyxia is a form of mechanical asphyxiation where external pressure on the chest or abdomen prevents normal lung and diaphragm movement, cutting off oxygen supply.

How does it occur?

• Seen in stampedes, crowd crushes, or when a heavy weight presses the torso.
• In extremely dense crowds (over 6–7 people per sq. metre), chest compression stops the diaphragm from expanding, blocking normal breathing.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing, chest pressure, dizziness.
• Bluish lips/skin (cyanosis).
• In severe cases: oxygen deprivation (hypoxia), CO₂ buildup (hypercapnia), unconsciousness, organ failure, or death.

Treatment:

• Quickly remove the person from the crushing force or crowd.
• Give oxygen, perform CPR, or secure the airway if needed.
• Hospital care may involve ventilation, treatment for organ injury, and monitoring for breathing complications.