How to Handle Airway Obstruction Emergencies

Airway blockage caused by foreign objects like food, candy, or seeds can become life-threatening within minutes. In such cases, knowing first aid can make all the difference. Here’s a simple guide on how to identify symptoms and provide immediate help.

Common Symptoms of Airway Obstruction:

• Difficulty in breathing

• Attempting to cough forcefully

• Trouble speaking or making sounds

• Clutching the throat

• Blue or darkened lips and fingernails

• Face and neck may turn red or pale, sometimes leading to dizziness or unconsciousness

Immediate First Aid for Adults:

• Encourage the person to cough repeatedly.

• If coughing is ineffective, stand behind the person and support them with your leg to prevent a fall.

• Deliver 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.

• If the person becomes unresponsive, begin back thrusts again and continue until the obstruction is cleared.

• For adults who remain standing, use a combination of back blows and encourage coughing.

• If the blockage persists, rush the person to the nearest hospital immediately.

For Infants and Small Emergency Preparedness:

• Support the infant’s head and neck using your arm.

• Position the infant face-down on your thigh, head lower than the body.

• Deliver 5 gentle but firm back blows between the shoulder blades.

• If ineffective, turn the baby over while still supporting the head and perform chest thrusts.

• Check if the object has dislodged.

Expert Opinion:

Dr. Maya Tandon, Anesthesiology Specialist and Former Member of the National Road Safety Council, emphasizes the importance of public awareness regarding simple, life-saving first aid in choking emergencies.