What is choking?

Choking is a medical emergency that occurs when there is an obstruction in the airway, preventing a person from breathing properly. This can be caused by food, small objects, or other items becoming lodged in the throat. Choking can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, as it can lead to a lack of oxygen reaching the brain and other vital organs. Symptoms of choking include difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and a high-pitched sound when breathing in. If someone is choking, it is important to act quickly and perform the Heimlich maneuver or other first aid techniques to dislodge the obstruction and restore normal breathing.

Choking is the medical emergency when a foreign body blocks a victim's airway. This sudden, life-threatening situation requires immediate first aid to clear the airway, allowing the victim to breathe again.