A slowing of the heart rate along with a fall in blood pressure when the carotid sinus is massaged. Carotid sinus massage may be used therapeutically as a treatment for paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.
Applying pressure to the carotid sinus can potentially suppress or halt the heart’s activity. This mechanism underlies garroting, which is distinct from strangulation. By exerting pressure on these specific areas on both sides of the neck, an individual can be rendered unconscious, causing them to collapse.