Agonal Gasps – Don’t Mistake Them for Breathing!
Have you ever seen someone collapse and noticed irregular, gasping breaths? This could be agonal gasping – a sign of cardiac arrest, NOT normal breathing.
What are Agonal Gasps?
Agonal gasps are irregular, shallow, and often slow breaths that can happen when the heart has stopped beating. They may sound like snorting, gasping, or struggling for air. They are NOT a sign of life!
How Common Are They?
Agonal gasps occur in nearly 40% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, which means they are often mistaken as breathing—leading to delays in CPR that could be lifesaving.
What Should You Do?
If someone is unresponsive and only gasping:
- Don’t wait—call 999 immediately!
- Start CPR—chest compressions can keep oxygen circulating.
- Use a defibrillator (AED) if available.
Learn How to Recognise and Respond
We teach this crucial skill in our First Aid Courses, so you’ll know exactly what to do in an emergency. Being prepared could mean the difference between life and death!
Book Your Training Today!
Call: 01935 473575
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