Choking can happen during an ordinary meal when food becomes stuck in the airway. It may occur while eating meat, fish or other food, and it can become life-threatening if the person cannot breathe.
Many people panic when they see someone choking, but knowing the difference between mild and severe choking can help you respond appropriately. A person who can cough forcefully or speak may still be moving air, while someone who cannot speak, breathe or cough effectively needs immediate help.
First aid depends on the person’s age and condition, so it is important to use recognised methods rather than trying random techniques.
1. Check Whether the Person Can Cough
If the person can speak, breathe or cough forcefully, encourage them to keep coughing. Stay nearby and watch for signs that the blockage is getting worse.
2. Call for Help if Choking Is Severe
If the person cannot speak, breathe or cough effectively, ask someone to call emergency services while you begin appropriate first aid.
3. Give Back Blows to an Adult or Child Over One Year
For severe choking, recognised first aid guidance recommends up to five firm back blows between the shoulder blades, checking after each one to see whether the blockage has cleared.
4. Use Abdominal Thrusts When Appropriate
If back blows do not clear the blockage, abdominal thrusts may be used on a conscious adult or child over one year by someone trained in the technique. Follow local first aid guidance. Different methods are needed for pregnant people and infants.
5. If the Person Becomes Unconscious
Lower the person carefully to the ground and call for emergency help. Begin CPR if they are not breathing normally and follow the emergency dispatcher’s instructions. Remove an object from the mouth only if you can clearly see it; never perform a blind finger sweep.
6. Get Medical Assessment When Needed
Anyone who continues to have difficulty breathing or swallowing needs urgent care. Medical assessment may also be needed after abdominal thrusts because injuries can occur.
Final Thoughts
Do not give water or food to someone who is actively choking, and do not hang them upside down. If you regularly care for children or older adults, learning practical first aid from a recognised training provider can help you respond more confidently during an emergency.
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