Choking first aid - adult or child over 1 year - series—Part 1: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Go to slide 1 out of 5Go to slide 2 out of 5Go to slide 3 out of 5Go to slide 4 out of 5Go to slide 5 out of 5OverviewA choking person's airway may be completely or partially blocked. A complete blockage is an urgent medical emergency. A partial obstruction can quickly become life threatening if the person loses the ability to breathe in and out sufficiently. Without oxygen, permanent brain damage can occur in as little as 4 minutes. Rapid first aid for choking can save a life.The universal distress signal for choking is grabbing the throat with one or both hands.DO NOT perform first aid if the person is coughing forcefully and able to speak - a strong cough can dislodge the object on its own.1. Ask the person:"Are you choking?""Can you speak?"2. Send someone to call 911 or your local emergency number.Review Date 1/2/2023 Updated by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director,...