First aid in case of choking

Easter, a time of merriment and chocolate eggs, but beware! It's not all sweetness and fun when you choke on an Easter egg. In this news story, we dive into the world of first aid when choking, especially for the Easter season. We discuss the do's and don'ts of what to do when a chocolate egg goes into the airway. So before you sink your teeth into that tempting chocolate, read on and be prepared for a safe and happy Easter!

What is suffocation?

Choking involves food, drink or an object entering the airway. The body tries to solve this problem itself by coughing. In many cases, this removes the object by itself. We refer to this as a mild choking. Sometimes a lump of food or an object can completely block the airway. In this case, we speak of a severe choking. Breathing then becomes difficult or even impossible. This is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate action.

What can you do?

Ask the victim "Did you choke?" From the responses, you can tell if air can still pass the object.

• If the victim is still speaking, coughing, crying or breathing, it is a slight choking. Then encourage the victim to cough. Continue to monitor until the victim is breathing normally again. 

• Can the victim no longer talk, cough, cry or breathe and makes coughing movements without sound? Does the head turn blue, or gradually diminish in consciousness? If so, this is a severe choking. Hit the back five times in quick succession. To do this, stand to the side of the victim, slightly to the back. Support the chest with one hand and have the victim bend forward. Strike firmly with the heel of your hand between the shoulder blades.
• Doesn't that help? Then give up to 5 abdominal thrusts. Stand behind the victim and bring both arms around the upper part of the abdomen. Have the victim lean forward. Place a fist on the upper part of the abdomen. With your other hand, pull the fist forcefully toward yourself and upward.
• Is the blockage of the airway still unresolved? Then continue to alternate 5 strokes on the back with 5 abdominal thrusts.

Important tip!

Consult a doctor if the victim continues to cough, has difficulty swallowing or feels like there is something in their throat after a slight choking. Even if you have given abdominal thrusts, always refer a victim to a doctor, as these can cause serious damage.

Alert the emergency services by dialing 112 if the victim loses consciousness. If he becomes unresponsive and unconscious, gently place him on the ground and start CPR.

Want to know more or learn first aid ?

Take a free training course at Belgian Red Cross-Flanders or download the app first aid. You can find all the info here.