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Traumatic asphyxia is commonly caused by a severe crushing injury to the chest and abdomen. This condition occurs when a significant external force compresses the thoracic area, leading to impaired ability to breathe and reduced blood flow to the lungs. The crushing mechanism can cause a sudden increase in intrathoracic pressure, which may result in a lack of oxygen being able to efficiently enter the bloodstream, ultimately leading to asphyxiation.

When a large object falls on a person or when they are trapped in a narrow space, the force exerted on the chest can potentially obstruct the airway and compress vital structures. The resulting lack of venous return can cause the facial vessels to rupture, leading to characteristic cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the face) and petechial hemorrhages around the eyes and mouth.

Other choices do not primarily relate to the mechanism of traumatic asphyxia. Increased intracranial pressure affects brain function and may lead to neurological deficits but does not typically result in the specific physical mechanisms causing asphyxia. Obstructive sleep apnea is a chronic condition related to sleep and airway obstruction, not a result of traumatic injury. Allergic reactions involve immune responses to allergens rather than physical trauma. Therefore, a severe crushing