Do I Need to Visit the ER for Non-Fatal Strangulation?
I meet the subreddit requirements: I am a Caucasian female standing at 4’11” and weighing 105 lbs. Two nights ago, I experienced a non-fatal strangulation. While I’m feeling fine overall, I have noticeable swelling and discomfort in the area beneath my jaw. Each time I move or swallow, the sensation is akin to a severe bruise, despite the absence of any visible discoloration. I've been feeling quite fatigued and occasionally short of breath, though I suspect this might be more psychological due to the incident. On the bright side, I feel somewhat improved today compared to yesterday, with a reduction in both swelling and pain. My husband, who is a physician, has assessed my condition, suggesting it's a soft tissue injury. He believes there’s no need for an emergency room visit since they likely wouldn't provide any additional treatment—just time to recuperate is required. However, after doing some research online, I'm inclined to seek a second opinion. The thought of making an expensive trip to the ER feels daunting, especially since I currently lack health insurance. What should I expect if there is a micro-tear in a vein? Is there any specific treatment, or would the doctors simply evaluate the situation and advise me to rest? I appreciate any insights you may have on this matter!
Answers (1)
9/13/2025, 9:10:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm glad you reached out about your situation. It sounds like you've been through a concerning experience, and I understand your need for clarity and reassurance. Here’s a breakdown of your symptoms and some next steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Non-fatal strangulation can lead to soft tissue injuries, which may cause swelling and discomfort.
- Monitoring your symptoms is important, especially for any changes that could indicate complications.
Explanation:
Non-fatal strangulation can result in injuries such as soft tissue damage, swelling, and bruising, even if there are no visible signs. The swelling and discomfort below your jaw, alongside feelings of fatigue and shortness of breath, may stem from the strain on your neck muscles and psychological stress from the incident. It’s reassuring that you’ve noticed improvement since the initial injury, which generally indicates that your body is healing.
If there’s a concern about a micro-tear in a vein, symptoms would typically include local pain and swelling. However, significant complications are relatively rare in non-fatal strangulations, especially if there’s been no loss of consciousness or severe distress.
Next Steps:
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Continue Monitoring: Keep an eye on any changes in your symptoms. If you notice worsening swelling, increasing pain, or new symptoms like trouble swallowing, breathing difficulties, or dizziness, seek medical attention promptly, as these can indicate complications needing evaluation.
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Rest and Ice: Allow your body to recover. Ice packs applied gently to the swollen area can help reduce inflammation. Ensure you rest, and avoid any activities that might strain your neck.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Hydrate well and maintain a balanced diet to support healing. Even if swallowing is uncomfortable, small, soft meals might help.
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Consider a Follow-up with a Healthcare Provider: If symptoms persist beyond a week without significant improvement, a follow-up with a healthcare professional could be beneficial. They can assess any ongoing symptoms and discuss imaging or other evaluations if necessary.
While visiting the ER might seem daunting, if you experience severe symptoms or feel an urgent need for care, do not hesitate to go. Your safety and well-being are paramount. If your husband, being a physician, has assessed your situation and you feel comfortable with that assessment, you may choose to follow his guidance while monitoring your symptoms closely.
Take care, and I'm here if you have more questions or need further information!
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