The Dangers of the Choke Challenge: what happens to your brain without oxygen?

The so-called choke challenge, also known as the suffocation game or the blackout challenge, is a dangerous trend in which people try to temporarily deprive themselves or others of oxygen to experience a shortterm high.
This may sound harmless and exciting, but it can have serious and life-threatening consequences for the brain.

When the brain is deprived of oxygen, even for a few seconds, brain cells quickly begin to become damaged or die. This can lead to permanent brain damage, loss of consciousness, and in many cases, even death.
After three minutes, damage is widespread throughout the brain.

The risk is particularly high because the effect is unpredictable and brain cells cannot regenerate. Dead brain cells stay dead. This can lead to every conceivable consequence of brain injury as a lifelong disability. These include: paralysis, epilepsy, ataxia, loss of speech (aphasia), physical discomfort from noise, the inability to use your hands, or the inability to think.

Watch the videos of the constant, uncontrolled shaking that can't be stopped, caused by a lack of oxygen in the brain.

Brain areas at risk from oxygen deficiency

Oxygen deficiency in the brain, also known as hypoxia, can have serious consequences for various brain areas. The hippocampus, responsible for memory and learning, is particularly sensitive to oxygen deficiency.
In addition, the cerebral cortex and cerebellum, which are involved in motor function, coordination, and information processing, are also at risk. The same applies to the temporal lobe, basal ganglia, brainstem, and thalamus.

With a long-term lack of oxygen, these areas can become damaged, which can lead to permanent problems with thinking and movement (cognitive or motor problems).

More information about oxygen deficiency in the brain can be found on this page.

What are peer pressure challenges and how do you deal with them?

Peer pressure challenges are challenges that arise under the influence of friends, peers, or social groups. They are often actions or behaviors someone undertakes to fit in, impress, or feel accepted by others. While some challenges may seem harmless, like a funny dance challenge on social media, others may carry risks, such as dangerous behavior or breaking personal boundaries.

It's important to stay aware of your own values and not give in to peer pressure that goes against your own beliefs or safety. Learn to say "no" without feeling guilty and be an example to others. You set your boundaries, not the group. You have to bear the consequences, for the rest of your life, if something happens. How does it feel when something happens to one of your friends?