Which Organ Fails First When a Person Dies: When a person dies, the body does not shut down completely at once. Different organs stop functioning at different times depending on their oxygen needs and blood flow. Understanding this organ shutdown timeline not only clarifies the process of death, but also reveals which organs may be possible for transplantation. Let us tell you which organ stops working first.

What happens first?

As soon as the heartbeat stops, the supply of oxygen to the body stops. The brain needs oxygen the most, so it is affected first. Within about 4 to 7 minutes, brain cells start getting destroyed. When the brain stops functioning permanently, it is called ‘brain death’ and is medically considered the definitive sign of death.

When does the heart and breathing stop?

In most cases of natural death, the heartbeat also stops along with breathing. As soon as the heart stops, blood flow stops and the lungs also stop functioning. However, with the help of machines in the hospital, oxygen can be given to the organs for some time. From a transplant perspective, the heart and lungs can remain useful for about 4 to 6 hours if properly preserved.

Which organs are affected after a few hours?

Liver, pancreas and intestines depend on energy and enzymes, due to which they start decaying rapidly after blood circulation stops. Generally their efficiency starts decreasing within 8 to 18 hours. If these are preserved immediately at cold temperatures, they can be preserved for a limited period of time for transplant.

Which organs remain protected for the longest time?

Kidney is a relatively more durable organ. If it is cooled and preserved quickly after death, it can remain transplantable for 24 to 36 hours. The transparent outer layer of the eye, i.e. the cornea, is less dependent on oxygen and can remain useful for donation for about 14 days. Tissues such as skin and bones can be preserved for days to years under proper preservation. This is the reason why the use of skin graft and bone tissue is possible even after a long time.

Read this also- Cancer Warning Symptoms: 15 lakh cases of cancer are increasing every year in the country, know the 3 most common symptoms of the deadly disease.

Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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