a person is exhibiting the universal sign of choking if he or she:

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28-10-2024

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The Silent Scream: Recognizing and Responding to Choking

Choking is a terrifying and potentially life-threatening situation. It occurs when an object or food becomes lodged in the airway, blocking the passage of air. Recognizing the signs of choking is crucial to providing timely and effective help.

The Universal Sign of Choking:

According to research published in the journal Emergency Medicine, the most reliable indicator of choking is the universal sign of choking ( [1] ). This involves clutching the throat with one or both hands, a gesture that instinctively conveys a desperate need for help.

What to Look For Besides the Universal Sign:

While the universal sign is a clear indicator, other signs can also point to choking:

• Inability to speak, cough, or breathe: A person choking will often be unable to make any sound, and their breathing may be shallow or noisy.
• Skin color changes: The face may become flushed or turn blue due to lack of oxygen.
• Eyes bulging: The person's eyes may bulge as they struggle for air.
• Wheezing or gurgling sounds: A whistling sound may be heard as the person tries to breathe.
• Loss of consciousness: If the choking persists, the person may lose consciousness.

Taking Action: How to Help Someone Choking

Important Note: The information below is intended as a guide. If you are unsure about how to help, call emergency services immediately.

1. Ask "Are you choking?"

2. If they can speak or cough, encourage them to continue. This may help dislodge the object.

3. If they cannot speak or cough, perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).

• Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
• Make a fist with one hand and place it just above their belly button, below their rib cage.
• Grab your fist with your other hand and press inward and upward with quick, strong thrusts.
• Repeat until the object is dislodged or the person loses consciousness.

4. If the person loses consciousness, begin CPR.

• Call emergency services immediately.
• Start CPR until help arrives.

Preventing Choking:

• Cut food into small pieces: Avoid giving children and older adults large pieces of food.
• Sit down while eating: Avoid eating while walking or running.
• Chew food thoroughly: Don't rush your meals.
• Avoid talking while eating: This can increase the risk of choking.
• Supervise children: Never leave young children unattended while they are eating.

Conclusion:

Choking is a serious medical emergency, but prompt recognition and action can save lives. The universal sign of choking is a clear indicator that immediate help is needed. By understanding the signs and learning how to perform the Heimlich maneuver, you can be prepared to act decisively and potentially save someone's life.

References:

1. Emergency Medicine. The Universal Sign of Choking. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S073646790500016X