What damage can come from choking someone?

Choking can cause a variety of damage, ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening complications. The severity of the damage depends on several factors, including the force and duration of the choking, the victim's age and overall health, and whether the airway is completely or partially obstructed.

Some common injuries associated with choking include:

1. Airway Obstruction:

- Complete obstruction: If the airway is completely blocked, the victim cannot breathe and may lose consciousness within a few minutes. This is a life-threatening emergency.

- Partial obstruction: This allows some air to pass through, but breathing is still severely restricted.

2. Asphyxiation:

- Lack of oxygen to the brain: Prolonged choking can lead to asphyxiation, where the body is deprived of oxygen. This can cause significant damage to the brain and vital organs.

- Hypoxia: Reduced oxygen levels can lead to the failure of vital functions, organ damage, and even death if not treated promptly.

3. Laryngeal Injuries:

- Bruising and swelling: The larynx (voice box) can become bruised and swollen due to the force of the choking, leading to difficulty breathing and speaking.

- Laryngeal fractures: In severe cases, the larynx can be fractured, causing life-threatening breathing problems.

4. Carotid Artery Injuries:

- Damage to the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, can occur during choking. This can lead to strokes and other neurological complications.

5. Neck Injuries:

- Muscle strain: The muscles in the neck can become strained or injured due to the force applied during choking.

- Soft tissue injuries: Choking can cause bruising, lacerations, and other injuries to the soft tissues of the neck.

6. Psychological Effects:

- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Survivors of choking incidents may experience psychological trauma and develop PTSD. This can lead to anxiety, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviors.

7. Long-Term Consequences:

- Brain damage: Severe choking episodes can cause permanent brain damage, leading to cognitive impairments, memory problems, and changes in personality.

- Disability: In some cases, choking injuries can result in long-term disabilities, affecting a person's ability to speak, swallow, or perform other essential activities.

It's important to seek immediate medical attention if someone has been choked, even if they appear to recover quickly. Some injuries, such as brain damage or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent and can have long-term consequences.