Death

Death (also called dying) is the permanent end of the biological functions that keep a living organism alive. It marks the conclusion of the basic processes such as respiration, blood circulation, and brain function. Death occurs in all living organisms: humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms.

Medical science distinguishes between different forms of death. When the heart stops and breathing ceases, this is called cardiopulmonary death. When the body's cells begin irreversible breakdown, this is called biological death. The distinction between these two is important for emergency treatment, since some people whose hearts have stopped can be revived through resuscitation procedures.

Medical definitions

For a long time, the signs of death were defined by the stopping of the heart and breathing. Following advances in life support and cardiac support machines, another definition emerged called brain death: the permanent loss of all brain functions, including the brainstem that controls breathing. Many countries have legally recognized this definition, and it forms the basis for decisions on organ donation.

Causes

The causes of death are divided into natural and accidental or violent causes. Natural causes include heart disease and blood vessel disease, cancer, respiratory disease, kidney disease, and age-related weakness. Others include traffic accidents, wounds, poisoning, and violence. The proportion each accounts for in overall mortality varies by country and is influenced by income level, healthcare provision, and lifestyle.

Physical changes after death

After death, the body undergoes a series of changes. When blood circulation stops, body temperature falls, blood pools in the lower body, and muscle rigidity sets in after some time. Cells and bacteria in the body then begin to break down and decompose. The science of these changes is used in forensic investigation to estimate time of death.

Social and religious aspects

Every society has customs for handling the body and observing the mourning period. These include washing, burial or cremation, and commemoration on designated days. The major religions hold views on what comes after death, such as the afterlife or rebirth. Legally, death triggers inheritance transfer, confirmation of death, and significant changes affecting the family.