What if someone else is choking?
A foreign object lodged at the back of the throat can block the airway or cause a muscle spasm. Young children are particularly at risk: they choke on food, but also on small objects they put in their mouths.ENT
Two situations stand out:
Minor obstruction : the victim is still able to speak, cry, cough, or breathe. They should be able to clear the obstruction themselves.
Severe obstruction : the victim is unable to speak, cry, cough, or breathe. Without help, they will eventually lose consciousness.
Adult or child
The objective is twofold: to remove the obstruction and, if necessary, to arrange urgent transport to the hospital.
If the obstruction is slight:
Encourage the person to continue coughing.
Remove any visible foreign objects from the mouth.
If the obstruction is severe:
Give up to five slaps between the shoulder blades.
Check the mouth and remove any visible foreign objects.
If the blockage persists:
