What are the risks of getting a hickey on the neck?

　　"Strawberry mark" usually refers to a hickey. Generally, the risks associated with hickeys on the neck include aesthetic impairment, local bruising, carotid artery ischemia, nerve damage, and infection risk, among others. A detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Aesthetic impairment: Hickeys on the neck typically appear purple or red and can significantly affect one's appearance, especially when attending formal events or social occasions. Applying an ice pack or cold towel to the affected area for 15–20 minutes each time is recommended to promote vasoconstriction, reduce bruising, and accelerate the fading of the hickey.

　　2. Local bruising: Vigorous sucking can rupture the capillaries beneath the skin, causing bruising. When the bruised area is extensive, symptoms such as pain and swelling may occur. It is recommended to apply warm compresses 24 hours after the hickey forms to promote the dissipation and absorption of the bruising.

　　3. Carotid artery ischemia: The carotid arteries are located on both sides of the neck and are responsible for supplying blood to the brain. If the suction force is too strong, it may compress the carotid artery, leading to insufficient blood supply to the brain and causing symptoms such as dizziness and headache. If symptoms of carotid artery ischemia appear, suction should be stopped immediately.

　　4. Nerve damage: The neck contains numerous nerves, including the cervical plexus and brachial plexus nerves. Excessive suction may damage these nerves, leading to sensory abnormalities or functional impairments. After nerve damage, sufficient rest and observation are recommended to allow for spontaneous nerve recovery.

　　5. Infection risk: Skin injuries are susceptible to bacterial infections, potentially causing inflammation such as cellulitis. These inflammations may lead to localized redness, swelling, pain, and fever, and severe cases could result in systemic infection. If signs of infection appear, timely medical consultation is advised, and antibiotic treatment should be administered under a physician's guidance, such as with amoxicillin capsules, cefixime granules, or ampicillin capsules.

　　In daily life, it is recommended to maintain good dietary habits and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, tomatoes, and cucumbers, which can help prevent the occurrence of diseases.