The thoracic diaphragm is a structure (of skeletal muscle) located across the bottom of the thoracic cavity. This structure regulates a critical movement involved in the respiration. When the diaphragm contracts, lungs are filled with air as the volume of the thoracic cavity increases. Since the neurotoxin of the venom blocks the contraction of the diaphragm, the body can no longer inhale and breathe. If there is no anti-venom in hand, the healthcare professional should assist the person's breathing by manually supplying oxygen using a CPR or an oxygen tank.