Strangulation
Strangulation is pressure on the neck that can cause injury to the spinal cord, brain stem, or neck structures; complete airway obstruction; cardiac arrest; or death. Strangulation may be a purposeful action or result from an accident.
How can you care for yourself after a strangulation injury?
- Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If your doctor told you how to care for any cuts on your neck, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
- Wash the cut with clean water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
- You may cover it with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
- Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.
Strangulation injury: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have a seizure.
- You have symptoms of a brain injury, such as:
- Changes in thinking.
- Changes in movement or feeling.
- You think that you or someone you know is in danger of being abused.
- You feel you cannot stop from hurting yourself or someone else.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
- Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
- Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or worse trouble breathing.
- You have new or worse trouble swallowing.
- You cough up blood.
- You have new or increased weakness or numbness in your arms.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have problems with depression or other mental health issues.
- You do not get better as expected.
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