Strangulation is the act of applying pressure to the neck of a person, typically with the hands, or a ligature, resulting in asphyxia or deprivation of oxygen to the brain. It is a dangerous form of assault that can cause death by either blocking the airways or cutting off the blood supply to the brain. An important point to note is that strangulation can cause immense pain and distress to the victim.
Physical Effects of Strangulation
Strangulation can have a variety of physical effects, depending on the degree of force used. Some of the physical effects that can result from strangulation include:
• Bruising around the neck, face, and chest
• Petechiae (small red dots) on the face and neck
• Swelling of the neck
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of consciousness
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Loss of vision
• Loss of hearing
• Headache
• Spasms of the larynx
• Paralysis of the vocal cords
• Swelling of the tongue
• Loss of sensation in the extremities
• Difficulty speaking
• Memory loss
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
Pain Associated With Strangulation
Strangulation can cause physical pain and distress to the victim. The pain from strangulation can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount of force used and the duration of the strangulation.
The physical pain associated with strangulation can be intense and can include:
• A feeling of pressure or squeezing around the neck
• Shooting or burning pain in the neck and face
• Pain or discomfort in the chest, arms, and legs
• A feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness
• Difficulty breathing or feeling like one is being suffocated
• A feeling of panic or fear
• Loss of consciousness
• Loss of muscle control
The psychological pain associated with strangulation can be just as intense and can include:
• Fear
• Anxiety
• Panic
• Anger
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Nightmares
• Difficulty concentrating
• Flashbacks
• Difficulty sleeping
Conclusion
Strangulation can cause significant physical and psychological pain and distress to the victim. It is important to understand the physical and psychological effects of strangulation to ensure that victims receive the proper care and support they need.
