ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Positional asphyxia

Positional asphyxia occurs when someone's body is in a position that makes it hard for them to breathe. It's like when you hold your breath underwater for too long, but in this case, your body is being squished or squeezed too much that you can't breathe anymore.

For example, if you are lying face down and your chest is pressed against the ground, it makes it hard for you to breathe because your lungs can't expand. Or, if you are sitting with your back against a wall and your head is tilted forward, it can close off your airway and make it difficult to breathe.

This can happen to anyone, but it is more common when someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol or if they are restrained or held down forcefully. When someone is in this position, their body is not able to get the oxygen it needs, and they can become unconscious and even die if not helped in time.

Therefore, it is very important to make sure that someone is not in a position that could cause positional asphyxia, and if you see someone in this situation, you should call for help immediately.