Can mucus in the lungs cause death instantly?

Mucus in the lungs generally does not cause instant death. While excessive mucus production can lead to respiratory difficulties, it usually develops gradually and worsens over time. However, in certain severe cases, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), rapid mucus accumulation in the lungs can obstruct airflow and lead to respiratory failure, potentially causing death within hours or days if not promptly treated. Nevertheless, instant death solely due to mucus in the lungs is rare and typically associated with specific underlying medical conditions or sudden, extreme events.