Quick Answer
Short answer: To recognize choking in others, look for signs such as difficulty speaking or breathing, a tight or swollen face, and a desperate attempt to cough or clear their airway. Check if they are making high-pitched sounds or gagging while trying to inhale. If you suspect choking, act quickly.
Identifying the Signs of Choking
Choking can occur when a foreign object becomes lodged in the airway, blocking the flow of air. One of the first signs of choking is difficulty speaking or breathing. People may also exhibit a tight or swollen face, often accompanied by a desperate attempt to cough or clear their airway. This can be accompanied by high-pitched sounds, such as gasping or gagging, while trying to inhale.
The 5-Second Rule
If someone is choking, the 5-second rule applies: if they are unable to speak or make sounds, you should start the Heimlich maneuver. First, stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist. Place one hand on their stomach, just above the belly button, and the other hand on top of it. Perform five to ten quick upward thrusts to help dislodge the object. If the person is still unable to breathe or speak after the Heimlich, repeat the process.
Repeated Attempts and Alternative Methods
If the Heimlich maneuver does not dislodge the object, do not repeat it more than five times. Instead, try other methods to help the person breathe, such as giving back blows. To do this, stand behind the person and lean them forward. Using the heel of your hand, give five quick blows between their shoulder blades. If this also fails to dislodge the object, call for emergency medical help or use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.