Choking can happen to anyone at any time, and it’s not just a problem for young children or the elderly.

In fact, choking is one of the leading causes of death for adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

What is Choking?

Choking occurs when an object, such as food or a small toy, becomes lodged in the throat and blocks the airway. This can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and even death if not quickly addressed.

Who is at Risk for Choking?

While anyone can experience choking, there are certain groups of people who may be at a higher risk:.

Young children
Elderly individuals
Individuals with neurological or swallowing disorders
Workers in certain industries, such as mining or construction, where dust or other particles can be inhaled
Individuals with dental problems or who wear dentures

How to Prevent Choking

The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of choking:.

Chew food thoroughly before swallowing.
Avoid talking or laughing while eating.
Sit up straight while eating and drinking.
Cut food into small, manageable pieces.
Avoid eating or drinking too quickly.
Never rush while eating or drinking, especially when consuming food that is hard, crunchy, or sticky.
Avoid eating while lying down or reclining.

What to Do if Someone is Choking

Despite your best efforts, choking can still occur. It’s important to know what to do if someone is choking:.

Encourage the person to cough to try and dislodge the object from their throat.
If coughing is not effective, perform the Heimlich maneuver:

Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the navel, thumb side in.
Grab the fist with your other hand and press into the abdomen in an upward motion.
Repeat until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious.

If the person becomes unconscious, call 911 and begin CPR.

Conclusion

Choking is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. By taking steps to prevent choking and knowing what to do in the event of an emergency, you can protect yourself and those around you from becoming a statistic.