Strangulieren

Strangulieren is a German verb that translates to strangulation or to strangle in English. It describes the act of causing asphyxiation by compressing the neck. This can be done with hands, a ligature, or any object that obstructs airflow to the lungs and blood flow to the brain.

The act of strangulation can be intentional, as in the case of murder or suicide, or accidental, such as during a severe fall or a medical procedure. In a legal context, strangulation is a serious crime, often resulting in severe penalties. It is a method used in both homicides and suicides, and can also occur unintentionally.

Medical professionals recognize strangulation as a critical medical emergency. The lack of oxygen to the brain can cause rapid and irreversible damage, leading to brain death or other severe neurological deficits. Immediate medical intervention is crucial for survival and to mitigate long-term health consequences. The term is also used in veterinary contexts, although less commonly, to describe accidental or intentional suffocation of animals.