According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 82 young people have died from what is commonly referred to as the “choking game.”

In the game, children use dog leashes or bungee cords wrapped around their necks or other means to temporarily cut blood flow to their head. The goal is a dreamlike, floating-in-space feeling when blood rushes back into the brain.

As many as 20 percent of teens and preteens play the game, sometimes in groups, according to estimates based on a few local studies. But nearly all the deaths were youths who played alone.

I had no idea youths actually did this (does choking sound like your idea of a fun pastime?), and apparently I’m not alone. Many parents are completely oblivious to this fad until unfortunate choking game-related events hit close to home.

CDC officials urged parents to be aware the fad exists, and to watch for possible warning signs like bloodshot eyes, marks on the neck, frequent and severe headaches, disorientation after spending time alone, and ropes, scarves or belts tied to bedroom furniture or doorknobs or found knotted on the floor.

The game is also known by names that include “blackout,” “space monkey” and “pass out.” It intrigues bright kids who like the idea of getting high without drinking or doing drugs, but it’s at least as dangerous.

Now you (and I) know.

Posted by Sunshine.