Dolphins provide clues to potential life-saving treatment for human trauma victims

Researchers looking into ways of preventing life-threatening drops in blood pressure in humans that have suffered severe blood loss have come up with a successful method that takes its inspiration from dolphins.

Some marine mammals like seals and dolphins are said to possess what is sometimes referred to as a ‘diving reflex’, a physiological function which is thought to partially activate when the face or head is immersed in cold water. Some bodily functions then temporarily change to conserve oxygen, allowing these mammals to remain underwater for long periods of time.

The scientific team based at the university in Buffalo in the United States ran successful tests to raise blood pressure in trauma victim simulations by using face cooling techniques that emergency medical teams, and even battlefield medics could one day use to save lives.

Discover more fascinating facts about dolphins and how to help us save them.