Signs and Symptoms of Choking
When someone is choking, they may display a number of signs and symptoms, including:
Coughing: A forceful, ongoing cough, which may be accompanied by a high-pitched sound.
Inability to speak: The person will not be able to speak, laugh, or cry.
Difficulty breathing: The person may experience difficulty breathing, with labored breathing or shortness of breath.
Gagging: The person may gag or make gurgling sounds.
How to Save Someone from Choking
If you think someone is choking, the first thing you should do is ask them if they are okay. If they are unable to speak, cough, or breathe, it is important to act quickly. Here are the steps you should take to help someone who is choking:
Call 911: Dial 911 or call for help immediately.
Give back blows: Standing behind the person, give five back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.
Give abdominal thrusts: Place your hands on the person's abdomen, just above the navel. Make a fist and place the thumb side of your fist against the person's abdomen. Grasp your fist with your other hand and press into their abdomen with a quick, upward thrust. Repeat this five times.
Repeat the cycle: If the object is not dislodged, continue alternating between back blows and abdominal thrusts until help arrives.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If the person is still choking after following the steps above, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Call 911 or take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.
