High temperatures coupled with the gradual loss of oxygen tragically caused the loss of a 9 month old boy, found in his mother’s car in Nicosia yesterday.
State coroner Angeliki Papetta performed a post-mortem late yesterday on the body of the infant, concluding that his death was the result of ‘anoxia and hypoxia in the context of hyperthermia’, as the baby gradually suffocated from the lack of oxygen, exacerbated by the day’s high temperatures.
Anoxia and hypoxia are conditions related to a lack of oxygen in the body’s tissues. Hyperthermia is an elevation of body temperature. When these conditions combine, serious health problems can arise that may lead to death in extreme, prolonged cases.
Hyperthermia can lead to an increased demand for oxygen by the tissues, while simultaneously reducing the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. This can result in hypoxia or even anoxia.
Beyond the coroner’s findings, the results of specialised toxicological and histopathological and genetic tests are expected to establish exact cause.
According to the facts of the case, as reported by the Nicosia CID, the baby’s mum thought she had dropped off the baby at the day care in the morning and drove to work, only for the infant to be discovered almost ten hours later in his seat at the back of the car.
The circumstances that led to the tragic incident are currently under investigation.
Symptoms of anoxia/hypoxia combined with hyperthermia may include:
Shortness of breath
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
Dizziness
Confusion
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Treatment
Treatment for anoxia/hypoxia combined with hyperthermia depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. It may include:
Lowering body temperature
Administering oxygen and fluids
Treating the underlying cause
Prevention
Prevention of anoxia/hypoxia combined with hyperthermia is of vital importance, particularly for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children and people with long term underlying conditions.
Effective ways of prevention are to avoid exposure, remain in cool, well ventilated indoor areas, take in plenty of water and avoid exercising in open spaces.
