When something gets stuck in the trachea (windpipe) and blocks the flow of air, it can cause choking, a hazardous medical condition. If not addressed right away, choking can be fatal.
symptoms and signs of choking
Choking symptoms and signs include:
breathing or speech difficulties
the throat tightens
breathing heavily
developing a blue or purple face
consciousness loss
How to deal with a choking person
You should take rapid action if you see someone choking. The steps are as follows:
- Examine the circumstances. Is the person who is choking aware? Are they capable of breathing or speaking?
- If the subject is awake: * Ascertain whether they are choking. * Tell them to sneeze up the thing. * Strike them back. Wrap your arms around their waist as you stand behind the person. Their upper bodies should be parallel to the ground while they lean forward at the waist. Five times use the heel of your hand to strike them between the shoulder blades. * Tilt your body towards them. Wrap your arms around their waist as you stand behind the person. Just over their belly button, place one hand in a fist. Pull firmly inward and upward with the second hand while positioning it on top of your fist. Five times, please.
- If the subject is unconscious, dial 999 or the appropriate emergency number in your area. If you have had CPR training, start it.
How to execute back strikes
To strike the back:
Wrap your arms around their waist as you stand behind the person.
Their upper bodies should be parallel to the ground while they lean forward at the waist.
Five times use the heel of your hand to strike them between the shoulder blades.
Verify to see if the item has moved. Repeat steps 2 and 3 if necessary.
The best way to execute abdominal thrusts
carrying out abdominal thrusts
Wrap your arms around their waist as you stand behind the person.
Just over their belly button, place one hand in a fist.
Pull firmly inward and upward with the second hand while positioning it on top of your fist.
Five times, please.
Verify to see if the item has moved. Repeat steps 2 and 3 if necessary.
essential safety advice
Give no stomach or back thrusts if the person is conscious unless they are choking.
Avoid using excessive force when giving abdominal or back thrusts. You might damage the person’s internal organs or ribs.
Do not attempt to remove the object yourself if it is lodged in the person’s throat and you are unable to free it. Dial your local emergency number or 911.
Conclusion
If untreated, choking is a dangerous medical problem that can be fatal. If you witness someone choking, take immediate action and provide choking first aid. You can save a life by taking these actions.