What is one event that can cause a person to stop breathing?

Near drowning is a critical event that can lead to a person stopping breathing. This phenomenon occurs when an individual is submerged in water and cannot properly breathe, either due to being underwater for an extended period or having water enter the airway. The body's respiratory system can be significantly compromised, leading to a cessation of normal breathing patterns. In cases of near drowning, the person may still be alive when rescued, but without prompt medical attention and resuscitation, the lack of oxygen can result in serious medical consequences or even death.

Excessive exercise may cause shortness of breath or temporary breathlessness, but it typically does not result in stopping breathing entirely. Changing weather can influence respiratory difficulties for some individuals, but it is not a direct cause of stopping breathing. Sleep, while affecting breathing patterns, generally leads to a natural reduction in breath rate rather than a complete cessation of breathing. Thus, the context and urgency associated with near drowning make it the most critical event capable of inducing such a dire situation.