Choking is one of the most common causes of death in both children and adults. It is caused by a sudden drop in oxygenation, which can lead to death within minutes if not dealt with quickly. It is often caused by food blocking the airways and the flow of air to the lungs because the throat is clogged.
In cases such as these we can use the Heimlich manoeuvre. The Heimlich manoeuvre is an effective life-saving technique in cases of choking which was first described by Henry Heimlich in 1974. It is recognised by the Red Cross and other organisations.
First call the emergency services to report the incident, then do the manoeuvre.
Symptoms of choking
Check that the person is really having difficulty breathing. Some signs of this are:
•The person tries to speak but cannot.
•The person starts to get agitated and confused, and clutches his throat with his hands.
•His skin starts to change colour, going bluish, which is a symptom of low blood oxygen.
Do the manoeuvre
•Position yourself behind the person and reach your arms around his or her waist. Pull upward and inward to increase airway pressure behind the obstructing object and force it from the windpipe. Do this as many times as necessary.
•If you are not strong enough, some firm blows to the back can help.
•If the person is unconscious or exhausted and sitting or lying on his or her back or you are not strong enough, the manoeuvre can also be done in this position.
•Children can also be saved with this manoeuvre.
•You can even do it to yourself if you are alone by using your hands or a chair back.
