Strangulation: Risks to Health and Safety

Strangulation involves the use of external pressure on the neck, restricting oxygen and blood flow to the brain. This pressure might be applied by one or two hands, an arm (chokehold), a knee, a foot, or by having something put around the neck and tightened, such as a belt or cord. Even without visible injury, damage can be life-threatening.

Risks to Your Health
  • Difficulty swallowing or speaking
  • Memory problems and confusion
  • Neck pain
  • Headaches and dizziness
  • Bruising
  • Sore throat
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Changes in mood, sleep, or vision
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Seizures
  • Nausea
  • Miscarriage
  • Incontinence
Risk to Your Safety

Strangulation is one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence: unconsciousness may occur within seconds, and death within minutes. If your partner has strangled you in the past, your risk of being killed by them increases significantly.

Follow-Up Care

Even if you have no visible injuries, we recommend seeing a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor can advise on if any tests, such as a scan of your neck or brain, are necessary.

Know Your Rights

If you have been strangled, you have the right to:

  • File a Police Report and Press Charges
    • Strangulation is a felony offense in all 50 states. In Rhode Island, the statute of limitations on felony crimes is three years, meaning you have three years from the time the crime occurred to press charges. A conviction can carry up to 10 years in prison, along with fines, probation, and mandatory counseling.
  • Apply for a Restraining Order
    • A restraining order can be sought whether or not there is a criminal case. Restraining orders can be issued when there has been physical or sexual abuse, threats of violence, or stalking.
  • Apply for Victim Compensation
    • Victims who suffer personal, physical or emotional injury in a violent crime in Rhode Island are eligible to apply for assistance through the Crime Victim Compensation Program (CVCP). This compensation can cover:
      • Medical, dental, or counseling expenses
      • Loss of earnings
      • Relocation expenses
    • Please note that the eligibility requirements for this program are strict. To be eligible for CVAP, a police report would need to be filed within 15 days of the crime taking place and a claim with CVCP would need to be filed within three years.
Strangulation in Consensual Sex

Some people experiment with strangulation or “choking” during consensual sex. It’s important to note that pressure being applied to the neck is always dangerous and potentially lethal.

How We Can Help

You are not alone. Sojourner House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our clients have access to emergency shelter, supportive housing and rental assistance, legal representation, clinical counseling, support groups, and more.

Need Support? Contact Us.

This blog post was written by Shannon McDonnell.