“Getting choked out” refers to the temporary loss of consciousness resulting from the intentional restriction of blood flow or airflow to the brain, often seen in contexts such as physical restraint or combat sports. This action carries inherent and significant medical risks. Understanding the underlying physiological mechanisms reveals why such an event is not benign. This article explores the specific dangers associated with being “choked out.”
How Choking Affects the Body
The primary mechanism leading to rapid unconsciousness in “choking out” scenarios involves compression of the carotid arteries, located on either side of the neck. These arteries are responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood directly to the brain. Pressure applied to these vessels significantly reduces the brain’s oxygen supply, leading to a swift loss of consciousness, often within seconds.
Simultaneously, pressure on the jugular veins can impede the return of deoxygenated blood from the brain. This venous compression causes blood to pool within the brain, increasing intracranial pressure and potentially contributing to cellular damage, exacerbating the brain’s deprivation.
Direct pressure on the trachea, or windpipe, restricts airflow to the lungs. This mechanism prevents oxygen from reaching the bloodstream and subsequently the brain, leading to oxygen deprivation (asphyxia). While tracheal compression typically takes longer to induce unconsciousness compared to carotid compression, it poses a severe risk of suffocation and can cause significant damage to the airway structures.
Acute Medical Risks
Reduced oxygen and blood flow to the brain, known as brain hypoxia or ischemia, represents an immediate and serious danger. Brain cells begin to sustain damage within minutes of oxygen deprivation, potentially leading to irreversible neurological impairment. Loss of consciousness indicates a significant reduction in the brain’s oxygen and nutrient supply.
Brain hypoxia can also trigger convulsive activity, manifesting as seizures. These uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain signal severe distress and can further contribute to brain injury. If consciousness is lost, there is a risk of aspiration (inhaling vomit or saliva), potentially leading to aspiration pneumonia or acute airway obstruction.
In severe cases, extreme oxygen deprivation or stimulation of the vagal nerve in the neck can lead to cardiac arrest. Physical trauma to the neck and throat structures is a concern, including potential damage to the larynx, trachea, or blood vessels. This trauma can manifest as a dissection of the carotid or vertebral arteries, a tear that can lead to blood clots, subsequent stroke, or hemorrhage. Increased pressure within the head during a “choke out” can also cause retinal damage.
Delayed Health Concerns
Even after recovering from a “choke out” incident, individuals may experience delayed health issues. Cognitive impairment can manifest as long-term effects on memory, concentration, and executive functions, even if immediate symptoms were not severe. This can impact daily activities and quality of life.
Persistent headaches or migraines are a potential delayed concern, often resulting from underlying brain injury or vascular damage. Damage to cranial nerves or nerves within the neck can lead to various issues, including changes in voice quality, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), or facial weakness. These neurological deficits may not be immediately apparent but can develop over time.
The psychological impact of such a traumatic event can be significant, leading to anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or an enduring fear response. These mental health challenges can affect an individual’s emotional well-being and social interactions. Damage to blood vessels, such as carotid artery dissection, may not present immediate symptoms but can significantly increase the long-term risk of stroke, sometimes weeks or months later.
Recognizing When to Seek Help
Anyone who has experienced being “choked out” should seek immediate medical attention. Persistent symptoms such as prolonged unconsciousness, confusion, a persistent headache, dizziness, visual disturbances, or slurred speech indicate urgent medical evaluation is necessary. These symptoms suggest ongoing neurological compromise.
Any pain, bruising, or swelling in the neck following a “choke out” warrants immediate medical assessment to rule out internal trauma to the airway or blood vessels. Difficulty breathing or swallowing are urgent signs that could indicate damage to the trachea, larynx, or controlling nerves. It is important to monitor for any delayed onset of neurological symptoms, no matter how subtle, as conditions like arterial dissection can manifest hours or days later.
As a general rule, it is always safest to seek professional medical evaluation after any incident involving loss of consciousness due to choking. Even if symptoms appear minor or resolve quickly, an underlying injury may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can assess for hidden dangers and recommend appropriate monitoring or treatment.