Agonal breathing can occur when someone has gone into cardiac arrest. Unlike a heart attack — which happens when one or more arteries narrow and stop blood from reaching the heart muscle — cardiac arrest is an electrical problem. During cardiac arrest, the heart stops beating effectively.

What causes agonal breathing?

Agonal breathing is when someone who is not getting enough oxygen is gasping for air. It is usually due to cardiac arrest or stroke. It's not true breathing. It's a natural reflex that happens when your brain is not getting the oxygen it needs to survive.

What do agonal gasps indicate?

Agonal breathing is the medical term used to describe struggling to breathe or gasping. It is often a symptom of a severe medical emergency, such as stroke or cardiac arrest. The gasping associated with agonal breathing is not true breathing, but rather a brainstem reflex.