Strangulation
Strangulation is one of the more common and violent methods domestic violence and/or sexual assault perpetrators use to overpower and injure their victims. Strangulation, commonly referred to as “choking,” is a silent killer that occurs when pressure is placed on the throat or neck, restricting blood circulation and breathing. When force is applied to the throat or neck, the airway, carotid arteries, and jugular veins are blocked off, leaving the victim at risk of death or brain damage. While strangulation and choking are often used interchangeably, they are completely different things. Choking refers to accidental blockage of the windpipe caused by an object, such as food. Strangulation is intentional pressure on the throat and neck. Strangulation, which is illegal, is often not recognized as a serious act because its dangerous effects can be invisible and/or delayed.
Dangerous Effects of Strangulation
Even when strangulation lasts for only a few seconds, the health repercussions can be devastating. A victim is unable to breathe, may see “stars,” and eventually loses consciousness as blood and oxygen supplies to the brain are impeded. The cartilage and bones in the throat can break or collapse instantly under the pressure. The victim is at a high risk of dying within hours, or days, if these structures are damaged. Dangerous effects of strangulation include:
- Brain damage
- Severe pain in the neck and shoulder area
- Seizures, psychosis and amnesia
- Hoarseness, voice changes or the inability to speak
- Sore throat and/or difficulty swallowing
- Miscarriage
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Involuntary urination or defecation
- Restlessness, agitation or aggression
- Dizziness
- Death
If You’ve Been Strangled
If you have been strangled, seek immediate medical attention - even if you don’t have any of these symptoms. Many of the effects of strangulation can take days to appear. Time is critical; seek medical attention, your life may depend on it! Anyone (even if they are someone you love) who has strangled you is very dangerous; please consider reporting this to police and/or reaching out to a domestic violence or sexual assault advocate to talk about your safety. Abuse is never your fault.
If Someone You Know Has Been Strangled
Injuries may not be visible, and bruising may not be visible for days. However, you may notice:
- Abrasions, scratches and/or redness on the neck and face
- Reddening in the whites of the eyes
- Difficulty breathing and/or hoarseness
- Broken capillaries around the eyes, neck or face
Click here for our Strangulation Brochure.