Choking

From ArticleWorld

Choking is a medical condition that consists of an obstruction of airflow into one's lung by a foreign object. This is a medical emergency, because it can cause oxygen starvation of cells, including brain cells. Choking most commonly happens because of pieces of food.

First aid and treatment

If the choking person can cough and respond verbally, it is recommended to encourage coughing without performing any other actions. The object may simply be removed by coughing.

Is coughing is not effective in dislodging the object, the person should be given a series of five back blows. If the person remain conscious, but this is not effective either, abdominal thrusts (also known as the Heimlich Maneuver) should be performed.

• Back blows should be given by leaning the person forward, supporting the chest with one hand and applying sharp blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of the other hand. Blows should be sharp but not extremely powerful, so that they do not cause any damage to the lungs or thoracic cavity.
• Abdominal thrusts are riskier because rib fractures can occur, especially in the case of elder persons. If possible, they should be performed while the patient is conscious, standing or seating. If the person is obese and is laying, or cannot be risen for some other reasons, they should be facing up. One hand will be used for directing upward thrusts, in order to clear the airways. A medical exam should be performed after this procedure finishes and the patient is not choking anymore.

CPR may be required after the object causing the choke has been removed.

Trained personnel may use a laryngoscope to inspect the pharynx and the larynx, and remove the object after the inspection. This is a common practice for paramedics, but should be avoided by untrained personnel.