Support Services After Strangulation

Key Facts

Strangulation and Choking are NOT the same thing – strangulation is external pressure on the neck, while choking is an internal blockage.
Women who are strangled by an intimate partner are 750% more likely to be killed in the future by that person.
Only 4 to 11 pounds of pressure is needed to block the veins and arteries, resulting in deprivation of oxygen to the brain – it takes 20 pounds of pressure to open a can of pop.
Half of victims have no visible external injuries even though they may be experiencing serious and life-threatening internal injuries.
Strangulation can result in loss of consciousness in seconds, as well as brain injury, stroke, and mental health consequences

Signs & Symptoms

Difficulty Breathing

Neck Pain

Loss of Consciousness

Vision Changes

Headache

Dizziness

Loss of Control over Bladder

Loss of Control over Bowels

Hoarse Voice

Coughing

Sore Throat

Petechiae (Burst Blood Vessels)

Confusion

Roaring in Ears

Nausea or Vomiting

Memory Loss

Swelling

Scratches

Redness

Bruising

Loss of Muscle Control

A medical exam with imaging is strongly recommended for all survivors of strangulation, as severe internal injuries, such as carotid dissection or brain injury, may have occurred.

Click here for an infographic of the above information

Recommended Webinars to Watch

The Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention and Hope for Alliance International have created numerous resources to increase and improve strangulation recognition and response.

Click below to watch a few of our recommended webinars.

Strangulation Services Around the World

Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention (US)

Website

In the Know (New Zealand)

Website

Institute for Addressing Strangulation (UK)

Website