Pediatric Signs and Symptoms of Strangulation

Signs and Symptoms of Strangulation

Visible signs may not be present.

Neurological

• Loss of memory
• Loss of consiousness
• Behavioral changes
• Loss of sensation
• Extremty weakness
• Difficulty speaking
• Fainting
• Urination
• Defecation
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Headaches

Voice & Throat Changes

• Raspy or hoarse voice
• Unable to speak
• Trouble swallowing 
• Painful to swallow 
• Clearing the throat
• Coughing
• Nausea
• Drooling
• Sore throat
• Stridor

Breathing Changes

• Difficulty breathing
• Respiratory distress 
• Unable to breathe

Eyes & Eyelids

• Petechiae to eyeball
• Petechiae to eyelid
• Bloody red eyeball(s)
• Vision changes
• Droopy eyelid

Face

• Petechiae
• Scratch marks
• Facial drooping
• Swelling

Chest

• Chest pain
• Redness
• Scratch marks
• Bruising
• Abrasions

Ears

• Ringing in the ears
• Petechiae on earlobe(s)
• Bruising behind the ear
• Bleeding in the ear

Mouth

• Bruising
• Swollen tongue
• Swollen lips
• Cuts/abrasions
• Internal petechiae

Neck

• Redness
• Scratch marks
• Bruising (thumb or fingers)
• Finger nail impressions
• Swelling
• Ligature or clothing marks

Source: Strangulation in Intimate Partner Violence, Chapter 16, Intimate Partner Violence, Oxford University Press, Inc. 2009.