Choking - Blocking of the Airway

 

 

 

 

Mild choking can be caused by liquids, solids or saliva entering the airway

It is identified by coughing or hacking. However, there is still a good air exchange. The person may have a red face or watery eyes. He/she may be leaning forward with hands on the knees or thighs while trying to forcefully cough the object out. Occasionally people try to suppress their coughing for fear of attracting attention. This should be avoided as coughing can help to dislodge the object.

Assist the person who is choking by encouraging him/her to keep coughing so that the airway may clear. If they start to wander away from the crowd in embarrassment, follow them in case they need your help.

 

Severe choking is caused by food, liquids, objects, illness or injuries. 

During severe choking, the person who is choking may be grabbing their throat. They are unable to speak or cough. No sound is heard or the person may emit high pitched wheezes. The face gets red and the eyes start to bulge out as the casualty struggles to breathe. Cyanosis (bluish colour) which starts around the lips and spreads throughout the face may occur. Panic and fear will be obvious. The more that the casualty panics, the faster the remaining oxygen is used up. It is therefore very important to calm the casualty down as much as possible.

Make sure you take control of the situation. Ask the person if he/she is choking and say that you are going to help. Position yourself behind the casualty and wrap your arms around the waist. Place your first fist in the center of their abdomen thumb side on the abdomen just above the navel. Place your other hand on top of the first grabbing your fist with the second hand. Do sharp abdominal thrusts hard and deep enough to dislodge the object. Try to use enough force to dislodge the object on your first attempt. If the first thrust is not effective, repeat the thrust with more force until the object comes out or the casualty becomes unconscious.

To become qualified and knowledgeable about how to deal with a choking victim, ensure you take a CPR or First Aid & CPR course!