Being “choked out” describes a situation where external pressure to the neck restricts the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. It is distinct from airway obstruction, such as choking on food, as it primarily involves the vascular system supplying the brain rather than the respiratory passages.
How Being Choked Out Affects the Brain
The brain relies on a constant and uninterrupted supply of oxygen and glucose, delivered through the blood, to function properly. When blood flow to the brain is compromised, as in a “choke out,” brain cells are deprived of these necessary resources. This rapid depletion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells, occurs within minutes. The failure of ATP-dependent ion pumps disrupts the electrical balance across cell membranes, leading to cellular depolarization. This process triggers an uncontrolled influx of calcium into the brain cells, which in turn causes the release of excessive glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can become toxic in high concentrations. This cascade of events, including proteolysis, ultimately leads to neuronal injury and cell death.
Immediate and Short-Term Consequences
During and immediately following a “choke out,” individuals typically experience a rapid onset of symptoms due to the brain’s immediate response to oxygen deprivation. Loss of consciousness can occur within 10 seconds of blood flow interruption. This is often accompanied by dizziness, lightheadedness, and a feeling of disorientation upon regaining awareness. Other common short-term effects include headaches, visual disturbances such as blurred vision or “seeing stars,” and temporary memory loss.
Potential for Permanent Brain Damage
While not every instance of being “choked out” results in permanent brain damage, the potential for lasting neurological impairment is a serious concern, particularly with prolonged or repeated incidents. After approximately one minute without oxygen, brain cells and neurons begin to suffer damage, and permanent brain damage becomes likely between one and three minutes. A significant type of injury that can result is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), which refers to brain damage caused by a lack of oxygen and blood flow. Severe cases can lead to extensive brain cell death and an increased risk of death after about five minutes of oxygen deprivation. If oxygen deprivation extends to ten minutes, death is likely, and after fifteen minutes, recovery and survival are nearly impossible.
Long-term neurological and cognitive impairments can manifest in various ways. Individuals may experience issues with memory, attention, and executive functions like planning and problem-solving. Motor coordination can be affected, leading to difficulties with movement and balance. In severe cases, personality changes may occur, and there is an increased risk for conditions such as epilepsy or even a persistent vegetative state.
Factors Influencing Risk and Severity
The extent and severity of brain damage from a “choke out” are influenced by several contributing factors. The duration of oxygen deprivation is a primary determinant; even brief periods can cause microscopic damage that may accumulate over time. The frequency of incidents also plays a role, as repeated episodes can lead to cumulative damage to brain tissue. The force and technique applied during the choke can impact the degree of blood flow restriction and subsequent oxygen deprivation. An individual’s susceptibility, influenced by pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or age, can alter their resilience to such events. Underlying health issues, such as anemia or other circulatory problems, can further exacerbate the brain’s vulnerability to oxygen starvation.