Choking is especially common in young children, but a person of any age can choke. Choking occurs when the airway becomes either partially or completely blocked by a foreign object, such as a piece of food or a small toy; by swelling in the mouth or throat; or by fluids, such as vomit or blood. A person who is choking can quickly become unresponsive and die, so it is important to act quickly.Find a Class First Aid Online Classes & Training First Aid CPR AED BLS/CPR for Healthcare ALS/PALS Babysitting & Child Care Skills Sessions Lifeguarding Swimming + Water Safety Instructor Training & Bridging
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Risk Factors for Choking
Certain behaviors can put a person at risk for choking, such as talking or laughing with the mouth full or eating too fast. Medical conditions (such as a neurological or muscular condition that affects the person’s ability to chew, swallow or both) can increase risk for choking. So can dental problems or poorly fitting dentures that affect the person’s ability to chew food properly.
Signs and Symptoms of Choking
A person who is choking typically has a panicked, confused or surprised facial expression. Some people may place one or both hands on their throat. The person may cough (either forcefully or weakly), or he or she may not be able to cough at all. You may hear high-pitched squeaking noises as the person tries to breathe, or nothing at all. If the airway is totally blocked, the person will not be able to speak, cry or cough. The person’s skin may initially appear flushed (red), but will become pale or bluish in color as the body is deprived of oxygen.
Emergency Steps
1
Check the scene safety, form an initial impression, obtain consent and put on PPE, as appropriate.
2
Check for signs and symptoms.
- Weak or no cough*
- High-pitched squeaking noises or no sound*
- Pale or blue skin color*
- Unable to cough, speak or cry*
- Panicked, confused or surprised appearance*
- Holding throat with hand(s)*
*Note: Signs and symptoms with a * require immediate emergency medical treatment.
3
Call 9-1-1 and get equipment if the person requires immediate emergency medical treatment.
4
Give Care.
General Care: Choking (Adult/Child)
Choking Adult/Child FAQs
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Information Provided the Scientific Advisory Council (SAC)
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