The tongue often protrudes after death primarily due to the buildup of gases during decomposition and the subsequent relaxation of muscles.
Explanation of Tongue Protrusion Post Mortem
Several factors contribute to the protrusion of the tongue after death:
- Gas Formation During Decomposition: In the early stages of decomposition, bacteria break down tissues, leading to the production of gases within the body. This gas buildup increases pressure inside the body cavity. As the pressure rises, it can force the tongue outwards.
- Muscle Relaxation (Autolysis): After death, the body undergoes autolysis, a process where enzymes break down cells. Rigor mortis (stiffening of muscles) eventually gives way, leading to muscle relaxation. This relaxation affects the muscles that normally keep the tongue in place, making it more likely to protrude if there's pressure from gas buildup.
In essence, the combination of increased internal pressure from decomposition gases pushing outwards and the relaxation of muscles that normally hold the tongue in place result in post-mortem tongue protrusion.
