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By: Ikedi Ani-okoye

Hanging and strangling: what to do

Both hanging and strangling involve compression of the windpipe and major blood vessels in the neck, which eventually causes death. In hanging, when the body is suspended by a noose around the neck, the neck is often broken. Strangling is constriction around the neck. Babies and young children are very Venerable to strangulation by items such as cot rails, banisters or railings. Such accidents occur with adults too, for example if clothing is caught in machinery. However, deliberate hanging as a form of suicide is Also a possibility.

Although most cases of strangling in babies and children are accidents, hanging is a common method of' suicide in men, and strangulation is often the method used in homicide. Death occurs because constriction of blood vessels in the neck stops oxygen reaching the brain, rather than because the airway is blocked. In hangings, the situation can be complicated because the neck is often broken. It is essential to remove the constricting items and give first aid as quickly as possible to give the best chance of restoring breathing. If you are dealing with a hanging casualty you must handle them very carefully to avoid aggravating a spinal injury.

Reducing the risks

Babies under three months old are vulnerable to accidental strangling on cot bars, other railings or dummies on a string around their necks. They are not strong enough to physically push themselves out of trouble. Toddlers may Iie with their neck over an object, and their body weight is enough to cause strangulation. Never leave babies and children alone in the house and be vigilant for hazards.

Older children, particularly boys, tend to take great risks when they are playing, and climbing trees and making dens are especially treacherous sources of potential danger. Children should always be made aware of the possible consequences preferably widiout spoilng their fun and without making them terrified of anything and everything around them. Play with younger siblings should be supervised if at all possible.

Automatic doors in shops and public buildings, and electric car windows, are responsible for significant numbers of accidental stranglings. Getting dangling clothing caught in escalators is another potential hazard. always watch children very carefully whenever they are around such devices.

Signs of hanging or strangling

Numerous tiny haemorrhages above the constriction line, including the whites of the eyes.

Bruising, scratches and swelling around the neck-even finger marks may be obvious.
if the casualty is still conscious, their neck will be very tender.

very noisy breathing. doe to the swelling around the airway, as well as a muffled voice and cough.