Parents and educators alike are warned to be on the lookout for a dangerous and potentially fatal activity among younger teens, commonly called the “choking game.”

The game has many names, such as pass out, dream game, blackout and flatliner, but the goal is always the same – to cut off the supply of oxygen to the brain until you pass out.  That is the first high -- then comes the second, when oxygen rushes back to the brain.

A euphoric drug-like rush is what children seem to want, and it can be addictive.

Children are playing this game in groups, but some may crave it so badly they are playing the game alone, using things found around the house like bed sheets, dog leashes, belts, and shoestrings.

Children do not appreciate the potential health risks associated with repeated oxygen deprivation.  The choking game can cause fainting, bruising, concussions, headaches, brain damage, and ultimately death.  

Here are some of the clues to look for that would indicate a child might be experimenting with the choking game:

• Recurrent headaches
• Bloodshot eyes
• Unusual marks on neck or upper torso
• Belts and ropes with unusual knots found in the child's bedroom and tied to furniture or other fixtures such as closet pole

Parents and educators are urged to talk to children about this problem and the potentially deadly consequences of playing the choking game.

Related Links

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Pittsburgh Tribune-Reviewl
Connect with Kids
Hartford Courant
USA Today
Kentucky Post
Seattle Times
Bucks County Courier Times
Toronto Pulse24

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