Agonal Breathing Awareness & CPR Training in Reno

When someone is in cardiac arrest or a severe medical emergency, their breathing may change drastically. One particularly alarming pattern is called agonal breathing. Recognizing it quickly can make the difference between life and death. Northern Nevada CPR in Reno offers training to help parents, caregivers, and the public identify agonal breathing and respond confidently with CPR.

What Is Agonal Breathing?

Agonal breathing is an abnormal, gasping pattern that occurs during severe medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest or brain injury. It is a reflex of the brain struggling to get oxygen—not normal breathing.

Agonal breathing may appear as:

• Slow, irregular, or shallow breaths

• Gasping, snorting, or moaning sounds

• Labored breathing with occasional jerky body movements

• The appearance of “trying to breathe” but failing to get enough air

Why Agonal Breathing Is a Medical Emergency

Agonal breathing signals severe oxygen deprivation to the brain and often indicates cardiac arrest, where the heart stops pumping effectively. Despite the gasping, the person is unconscious or barely responsive and requires immediate intervention.

How to Respond to Agonal Breathing

Call 911 Immediately

Tell the dispatcher you suspect cardiac arrest and describe the abnormal breathing pattern.

Start CPR Right Away

• Begin chest compressions immediately; don’t delay to check for a pulse if untrained.

• Provide rescue breaths if you are trained and comfortable.

Use an AED if Available

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can restart the heart in many cardiac arrest cases. Follow the device’s voice prompts carefully.

Why Agonal Breathing Can Be Misleading

The gasping sounds may trick bystanders into thinking the person is breathing normally, causing dangerous delays. Remember:

• Agonal breaths are not normal breathing

• They indicate a life-threatening emergency

• Immediate CPR saves lives

Conclusion

Agonal breathing is a critical warning sign of cardiac arrest or severe medical distress. Recognizing it and acting quickly by calling 911 and starting CPR can significantly improve survival chances. Northern Nevada CPR provides expert CPR and emergency response training in Reno, helping you stay prepared for real-life emergencies.