Understanding Gatwiri’s Cause of Death: Unraveling Positional Asphyxiation
The death of Kenyan influencer Tabitha Gatwiri has shocked the country’s content-creation community.
Her passing was confirmed on October 31, 2024.
Early reports suggested she died following a brief illness.
Her remains were transferred to the Kenyatta University Hospital (KU) morgue for an autopsy.
The autopsy revealed that Gatwiri’s death was caused by positional asphyxiation, commonly known as suffocation.
“The late Gatwiri passed away from positional asphyxia with brain edema,” the report stated.
Brain edema, or swelling, occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen, causing fluid to accumulate in the brain tissues, leading to swelling. This condition can quickly result in brain damage or, in extreme cases, death.
Positional asphyxiation might be unfamiliar to many.
Dr. Waweru Munyu, a pulmonologist, explains it as a “condition where a person cannot move air into the lungs due to the position of the body.”
Dr. Waweru elaborates on how positional asphyxiation occurs.
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It can be triggered by factors such as excessive neck extension or flexion, or pressure on the neck, chest, or abdomen, which restricts diaphragm movement and increases the risk of suffocation.
Dr. Waweru also notes that drugs and accidents are common causes of positional asphyxiation.
“Road accidents can also lead to positional asphyxia, where a vehicle rolls and compresses the person’s chest area, limiting their ability to breathe properly,” he said.
“It can also occur in individuals who have reduced consciousness, for example, after consuming alcohol or drugs that induce a coma. In such cases, they might end up in a position that hinders their ability to breathe, potentially leading to suffocation or death.”
Dr. Waweru emphasizes the importance of vigilance to prevent accidents and excessive drug use.
“If you notice someone is unable to move or unconscious due to drug consumption or an accident, it’s crucial to maintain an open airway. Position their neck properly to allow airflow and clear any debris from the chest or abdomen. This can help prevent positional asphyxiation.”
Understanding Gatwiri’s Cause of Death: Unraveling Positional Asphyxiation
