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Frequent strangulation induced cerebral hypoxia

I've recently been participating in jujitsu, where a common choking technique involves applying pressure to the neck region and blocking blood circulation to the brain. The choke is applied until an opponent either signals defeat or if the opponent loses consciousness. The choke usually lasts for 5 seconds, and 90% of the time, the choke is released before loss of consciousness.

My question is whether or not there is a risk of irreversible brain damage being done? Two risks that I can think of is 1. transient reduction in cerebral blood oxygen level due to arterial occlusion 2. increase in ICP, possibility causing a decrease in regional blood flow.

I've been experiencing headache and drowsiness after being choked and the symptom lasts for roughly a day or two, however everything is back to normal after a week. I think the symptoms are most likely due to increase in intracranial pressure (ICP) since the symptom becomes more pronounced when my head tilts below my heart. I believe the increase in ICP is due to occlusion of the jugular veins during heavy exercise intensity, leading to an accumulation of fluid inside the brain.

However, as I've mentioned the choke lasted for less than 5 seconds, and my symptoms seems to be reversible in a day or two. My question is whether or not there is a risk of irreversible brain damage being done?

Thank you for your time!











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757137 tn?1347196453
As you well know you lose consciousness from lack of oxygen. Such a brief episode may not effect most people, but it is definitely bothering you. I don't know if a doctor can come up with a definitive answer as to whether or not you will suffer permanent injury, but the fact that it takes you so long to recover is not a good sign. Also consider that you might have an underlying condition that makes you more susceptible to damage.
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Avatar universal
Thanks for your respond

I'm very passionate about the sport and I would like to know my risks before making to decision to whether i should leave.

Unlike boxing, where there are definitive damage being done to the brain, studies on judo strangulation suggest there are no long term consequence. However, the symptom I experience are quite unique (not too many people experienced this) and I'm not sure whether it's something of a concern.
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757137 tn?1347196453
If you read over you question you will see that you have answered it yourself. We don't need the medical folderol. It does not take a rocket scientist to know  that persistent choking is not the greatest idea in the world.
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