In the last 13 years, 82 American kids have died playing the choking game but the thousands of other teenagers who play the game risk death every time, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  With parents deeply concerned over drug use, drinking, and other perils of the teenage years, perhaps too little attention is paid to this game, also known as the fainting game.

The object of the game is to deprive the player of so much oxygen he or she feels ‘high’ or euphoric.  Two methods of oxygen deprivation are used – choking and intentional hyperventilation.  Choking can be done solo or with the help of a friend.

The recent death of a 15-year-old North Carolina boy highlights the dangers of this game.  Kris Marceno used an electrical cord to play, tying one end to a bunk bed and the other around his neck.  His sister discovered his body.

Kris’ parents, Joe and Bobbi Jo Marceno, have taken their son’s death to the public in an effort to educate other parents to the dangers of this game.  Joe Marceno said he’d heard of the game but didn’t pay much attention to it.  His concerns were for drugs, drinking, and “that kind of stuff.”  Kris was dead before his family knew that the game is popular at Kris’ school.

Death isn’t the only danger associated with the game.  Kids suffer from bone fractures, concussions, hemorrhaging of the eyes, and tongue biting as a result of playing the game.  Concerned parents should be aware of physical symptoms caused by the game – bloodshot eyes, bruised marks around the neck, disorientation, and severe headaches.

The Marcenos are particularly concerned for parents who think their children wouldn’t play this game.  When Kris was still alive, the Marcenos felt the same way.

Source: Fox News