Agonal Breathing
Agonal breathing is not normal breathing and is extremely serious. If you witness someone experiencing agonal breathing, call emergency services (000) immediately.
What is agonal breathing?
Agonal breathing, also known as an agonal gasp, is an abnormal, reflexive gasping movement which happens when the brain does not get enough oxygen. It is a sign of a life-threatening emergency.
It is irregular, shallow, and very slow (less than 3-4 breaths per minute). It is observed in an unconscious person, for example someone experiencing a cardiac arrest or drowning.
What does agonal breathing look like?
Irregular: Agonal gasps are irregular with long, unpredictable pauses and may involve strained neck or chest movements. The person’s mouth may open and close, resembling a ‘fish out of water’.
Loud: Someone experiencing agonal breathing will produce short, ragged gasps. They may snort, gurgle or make strange moaning sounds.
Unresponsive: The person is unconscious and does not respond.
Skin changes: The skin, lips or fingernails of the person may turn pale blue or grey due to a lack of oxygen.
What causes agonal breathing?
There are several possible causes of agonal gasps, including:
- Cardiac arrest
- Stroke
- Anoxic brain injury
- Suffocation
- Choking
- Drowning
- Poisoning
- Drug overdose
Why it happens:
The body is starved of oxygen, causing the lower brain stem neurons to trigger reflexive, involuntary gasps.
What to do if someone has agonal breathing?
- Call triple zero (000) immediately
- If someone is unconscious and not breathing normally, commence CPR
- Send others for an automated external defibrillator (AED)
- Continue CPR and apply the AED
If reading this has made you wonder whether you'd know what to do with a real person experiencing agonal gasps in front of you, that's where practical first aid training comes in.
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Key things to remember for agonal breathing
Is agonal breathing normal breathing?
No. Agonal breathing is not normal breathing. It is a gasping that occurs when someone is experiencing a serious medical emergency.
What do I do if someone is experiencing agonal breathing?
If a person begins to experience agonal breathing you should call 000 immediately. Commence CPR and send someone to retrieve an AED.
