1. What to do if you Choke?
If you find yourself choking, remain calm and take a few deep breaths. If you are unable to breathe, cough forcefully to try to dislodge the object. If this does not work, call 911 or have someone call for you.
2. How to Help Someone Who is Choking?
If someone else is choking, ask if they can speak or breathe. If they cannot, perform the Heimlich maneuver by standing behind the person and wrapping your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the navel. With the other hand, grab your fist and press into the abdomen with a quick upward thrust. Repeat until the object is dislodged.
3. When to Seek Medical Attention?
If the object is not dislodged, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. An X-ray may be necessary to determine if the object is still lodged in the airway. If the object is still lodged, the doctor may need to perform a procedure to remove it.
4. Preventing Choking
One of the most important ways to prevent choking is to avoid eating large pieces of food or any food that is hard to chew. Additionally, children should always be supervised when eating and should not be allowed to run or play while eating. It is also important to be aware of the signs of choking and to seek medical attention immediately if you or someone else is choking.
