Strangulation

The Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention defines strangulation as “the obstruction of blood vessels and/or airflow in the neck resulting in asphyxia." Strangulation has only recently been identified as one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence: unconsciousness may occur within seconds and death within minutes. When domestic violence perpetrators choke (strangle) their victims, not only is this a felonious assault, but it may be an attempted homicide. Strangulation is an ultimate form of power and control, where the batterer can demonstrate control over the victim’s next breath; having devastating psychological effects or a potentially fatal outcome.

If you have experienced someone putting pressure around your neck and/or experienced difficulty breathing during an assault, please seek medical care.

• After a choking, strangulation and/or suffocation assault victims can experience delayed symptoms of internal injuries.

• Symptoms of internal injuries may appear quickly or develop over a few days after the event. Internal injuries can be serious and even fatal.

• It is important that someone you trust stays with you for the next 24–72 hours to help you monitor your signs and symptoms.

• We recommend you keep a list of your symptoms to share with your healthcare provider and advocate.

• The cost of your medical care may be covered by the Indiana Victim Compensation Fund

• Monitor you signs and symptoms of strangulation

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should CALL 911 or go right away to the nearest EMERGENCY ROOM

• Difficulty breathing

• Persistent cough or coughing up blood

• Loss of consciousness or “passing out”

• Changes in your voice, difficulty speaking, or understanding speech

• Difficulty swallowing, feelings of a lump in your throat or a muscle spasm in your throat or neck

• Swelling to your throat, neck, or tongue

• Increased neck pain

• Drooping eyelid

• Weakness, numbness or tingling on the left or right side of your body

• Difficulty walking

• Headache, not relieved by pain medication

• Dizziness, lightheadedness or changes in vision

• Seizures • Behavioral changes, memory loss, or confusion

• If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or others