First Aid Treatment for Choking

When a person starts choking, time is of the essence. Every second counts when something is blocking the flow of air in the windpipe or the throat, and it becomes imperative that this object gets dislodged immediately. There are a few ways to administer first aid in the event that someone is choking. These methods depend on the age of the victim and if the person is unconscious.

Conscious Choking Person

• Using the heel of your hand, deliver five consecutive blows to the back and between the shoulder blades. If the object is not dislodged, follow up with five abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver). Alternate back and forth until the item is dislodged or help arrives.

Unconscious Choking Person

• Making sure that the person is lying down, clear the airway by putting your finger in the victim's mouth and doing a sweeping motion in the back of the throat. If you cannot dislodge the object, begin CPR immediately and continue until help arrives.

Child Under 1 Years Old

• While you are seated, hold the infant face-down and apply the same blows to the child's back with the heel of your hand. If the object does not get released, flip the infant face up, put two fingers in the middle of the child's breastbone, then follow up with five swift chest compressions.

Pregnant or Obese Victim

• Place your hands a bit higher than you would with the Heimlich maneuver. Begin the thrusts and be sure to press hard and fast. Continue until the object is dislodged or help arrives.

If You Are the Victim

• If you are choking and there is no one around to assist you, you must act fast before you become unconscious. Put your fist above the navel, grab your fist with your other hand and bend over, pushing upward.