Key points
- Can cause death even with experienced practitioners
- Unconsciousness can happen within seconds
- No safe way to restrict breathing
- Passing out is a medical emergency
- Many community members refuse to do this activity
In detail
- Restricting blood flow or oxygen can cause: death, stroke, heart attack, brain damage, seizures
- Brain damage begins after 4 to 6 minutes without oxygen
- Loss of consciousness can occur suddenly without warning
- Pressure on carotid arteries is extremely dangerous
- Ligatures (ropes, belts) around the neck can kill
- Even hand pressure on throat carries severe risks
- Aftermath of passing out: potential brain damage, aspiration risk, cardiac arrest
- There is no amount of training that makes this safe
- Deaths happen, even among experienced players
Warnings
- Death is possible every single time
- No safe word can help if someone passes out
- There can be serious legal consequences if someone is injured or dies
- There is no way to predict who will have a fatal reaction
- Pre-existing conditions may be unknown
- Risk increases with alcohol, drugs, or health conditions
Resources and next steps
- Seriously consider whether the risk is worth it
- Explore safer alternatives: psychological dominance, sensation play
- If you choose to do it despite the risks: research extensively, never use ligatures, and never play alone
- Learn CPR and have an emergency plan
- Many dungeons ban this activity entirely
- Local emergency services: call immediately if someone loses consciousness