Death during indigenous treatments : chocking due to a half of a lime

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Date
2017
Authors
Senanayake, S. M. H. M. K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Abstract
Thirty six years old woman, who was suffering from convulsions, decided to follow indigenous treatments. After beating with a coconut flower, when a lime was cut over the mouth, indigenous practitioner asked the patient to swallow the cut lime, put the cut pieces in to the mouth and pushed them deep using the cutting instrument. She struggled and found dead. Multiple injuries were found. Larynx was obstructed with half of a lime. This case shows that a conscious adult also may die due to choking if a food particle is forcefully pushed deep in to the mouth. It is an example for homicidal chocking. Health education and regulations are necessary on indigenous treatments.
Description
Keywords
indigenous treatment , choking , lime
Citation
Sri Lanka Journal of Forensic Medicine, Science & Law December 2017, Vol.8, No.2, P. 7 – 9