A dangerous trend has emerged among young people, where participants press hard on the two arteries in the neck, known as the "pen challenge." This reckless activity can lead to swift and potentially fatal consequences.

On social media, some individuals shared that the action gives them a floating sensation, leading to temporary unconsciousness, after which they are awakened by friends.

Many students are intrigued by the "pen challenge." Video clips circulating on social media show participants engaging in the activity.

Dr. Doan Du Manh, from Sait Paul General Hospital in Hanoi, expressed concern upon seeing videos of young people enthusiastically participating in the game and posting their experiences online.

According to Dr. Manh, pressing the fingers tightly against the neck's arteries can cause a blockage or even a rupture. This action disrupts blood flow to the brain, potentially leading to seizures, fainting, and strokes. For those with underlying heart conditions or high blood pressure, this risky behavior could be fatal.

Participants may experience temporary fainting. When revived by their friends, they often feel a sense of relief, but this is a deceptive sensation.

Associate Professor Nguyen Huy Thang, Vice President of the Vietnam Stroke Association, also confirmed the extreme danger of this activity. Pressing both sides of the carotid arteries significantly reduces blood flow to the brain. These arteries are responsible for supplying 70-80% of the brain's blood.

Quickly applying pressure can cause dizziness, fainting, and temporary loss of consciousness. Prolonged compression can lead to a stroke due to lack of blood flow. This is especially dangerous for individuals who may unknowingly have narrowed blood vessels, which could lead to life-threatening consequences.

Moreover, excessive pressure can cause damage to the carotid artery itself. In 2008, Dr. Thang witnessed a case where a young mother was rushed to the hospital with paralysis on one side of her body. Upon examining her arteries, doctors found signs of a carotid artery dissection. The woman had suffered the injury after her young son clung to her neck while playing.

The neck houses crucial blood vessels, particularly the carotid arteries, which supply oxygen to the brain. Improper pressure or contact can easily lead to acute cardiovascular complications.

Dr. Thang explained that applying pressure to the neck can stimulate the carotid sinus, potentially slowing the heart rate or even causing cardiac arrest. Therefore, individuals should avoid self-massaging or pressing on the neck area.

The arteries in the neck are very delicate, and pressing on them can stop blood flow. This is a procedure used in first aid for victims suffering from severe blood loss. However, only experienced medical staff or trained rescuers should use this technique in emergency situations to prevent death from blood loss.

Phuong Thuy