What is a common effect of positional asphyxiation?

Positional asphyxiation occurs when a person's position restricts airflow, leading to a critical inability to breathe effectively. This can happen in various scenarios, especially during restraint. A common effect of this condition is sudden in-custody death, which can result from a combination of factors, including constrained breathing and heightened stress or physical exertion experienced by the individual.

During these incidents, the airway may become obstructed due to the positioning of the body, often leading to loss of consciousness and potentially death if not rectified immediately. This phenomenon underscores the risks associated with certain restraint techniques and the importance of monitoring an individual’s position closely to ensure their safety. The focus on sudden in-custody death highlights the serious implications of mishandling situations involving potential positional asphyxiation.