Suicide bag
Suicide bag
A suicide bag, also known as an exit bag or helium hood, is a euthanasia device consisting of a large plastic bag with a drawstring used to commit suicide through inert gas asphyxiation. It is usually used in conjunction with a source of inert gas like helium or nitrogen, which prevents the panic, sense of suffocation and struggling during unconsciousness (known as the Mammalian diving reflex) that normal suffocation induces.
Pronunciation
- /ˈsuːɪsaɪd bæɡ/
Etymology
The term "suicide bag" is a combination of the words "suicide", which comes from the Latin suicidium, from sui caedere, "to kill oneself", and "bag", which has its origins in the Old Norse baggi.
Usage
The suicide bag, in conjunction with an inert gas, induces hypoxia (lack of oxygen), leading to unconsciousness and death. The person does not experience the panic and distress associated with suffocation as the high concentration of inert gas prevents the buildup of carbon dioxide that leads to the sensation of air hunger.
Related terms
- Euthanasia: The act or practice of killing or permitting the death of hopelessly sick or injured individuals in a relatively painless way for reasons of mercy.
- Inert gas asphyxiation: A form of asphyxiation which results from breathing a physiologically inert gas in the absence of oxygen, or a low amount of oxygen, rather than atmospheric air.
- Mammalian diving reflex: A reflex in mammals which optimizes respiration to allow staying underwater for extended periods of time.
- Air hunger: The sensation of breathlessness or inadequate breathing, also known as dyspnea.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Suicide bag
- Wikipedia's article - Suicide bag
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