Children are more likely to choke on food or small toys, a situation that occurs when an object becomes lodged in the airway (trachea), blocking the flow of air to the lungs. This results in difficulty breathing and can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly.

The trachea is protected by the epiglottis, a thin layer that functions like a lid, opening and closing each time food is swallowed. The epiglottis ensures that food passes into the esophagus and not into the trachea, where it could block airflow.

As reported by Kidshealth, choking can happen when food or another object blocks the trachea. If the child coughs, the blockage may clear, and breathing can resume. If the food is expelled and the child has no further breathing difficulty, no further action is necessary. The child might be slightly upset due to the shock of choking, but they should recover within a few moments.

However, when a child is choking, sometimes there is no coughing response. In such cases, immediate help is required if the following signs are observed:

• Inability to breathe

• Gasping or wheezing

• Inability to speak or cry silently

• Face turning blue

• Holding the neck and waving arms

• Panic

• Loss of consciousness

Perform the Heimlich Maneuver:

• Stand behind the child and wrap one arm around their waist.

• Make a fist with one hand and place your thumb on the palm, positioning it between their chest and navel.

• Grasp the fist with your other hand and press the abdomen quickly and upward.

• Continue performing this technique until the object is expelled.

• Once the object is dislodged, take the child to the doctor to check for any remaining debris or items that could be lodged in the lungs.

First Aid for Choking in Children Under 1 Year Old

Babies under 1 year old are also at risk of choking. If a baby appears to be unable to breathe, cough, or make any sound, get to the nearest hospital immediately. In the meantime, follow these steps:

• Rest your arm on your thigh for support.

• With the baby facing down, deliver a quick, firm blow between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.

If the Object Is Still Not Dislodged:

• Turn the baby onto their back, ensuring their head is lower than their chest.

• Place two fingers on the center of their sternum (just below the nipple) and press inward quickly five times.

• Repeat these movements until the object is expelled.

• Take the baby to the hospital immediately to get a check or help if it doesn't work.

Do not insert your fingers into the baby's mouth unless you can visibly see the object. Doing so could push the object further into the airway, making the situation worse.

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