# Suffocation - A creature can hold its breath for a number of minutes equal half its hit die maximum (minimum of 30 seconds). - When a creature runs out of breath or is choking, it can survive for a number of rounds equal to its [[Constitution]] modifier (minimum of 1 round). At the start of its next turn, it drops to 0 hit points and is dying, and it can't regain hit points or be stabilized until it can breathe again. - For example, a creature with a 1d8 hit die and 14 Constitution can hold its breath for 4 minutes. If it starts suffocating, it has 2 rounds to reach air before it drops to 0 hit points.