Choking in an adult or child over 1 year (patient information): Difference between revisions
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
Choking is when someone can't breathe because food, a toy, or other object is blocking the airway (throat or windpipe). | Choking is when someone can't breathe because food, a toy, or other object is blocking the airway (throat or windpipe). | ||
A choking person's airway may be completely or partially blocked, so that not enough oxygen reaches the lungs. A complete blockage is a medical emergency. A partial blockage can quickly become life threatening if the person cannot properly breathe in and out. | |||
Without oxygen, permanent brain damage can occur in as little as 4 - 6 minutes. Rapid first aid for choking can save a life. | |||
Occasionally an object will enter the lung. While the person may appear to improve and breathe normally, in a few days symptoms may develop, such as persistent [[cough]], [[pneumonia]] and [[wheezing]]. | |||
==What are the symptoms of Choking in an adult or child over 1 year?== | ==What are the symptoms of Choking in an adult or child over 1 year?== | ||
Revision as of 20:06, 21 February 2013
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Choking in an adult or child over 1 year |
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Overview
Choking is when someone can't breathe because food, a toy, or other object is blocking the airway (throat or windpipe).
A choking person's airway may be completely or partially blocked, so that not enough oxygen reaches the lungs. A complete blockage is a medical emergency. A partial blockage can quickly become life threatening if the person cannot properly breathe in and out.
Without oxygen, permanent brain damage can occur in as little as 4 - 6 minutes. Rapid first aid for choking can save a life.
Occasionally an object will enter the lung. While the person may appear to improve and breathe normally, in a few days symptoms may develop, such as persistent cough, pneumonia and wheezing.