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.
Choking in an adult or child over 1 year
Choking in an infant under 1 year
Immunization during pregnancy
Cough in children
Influenza risk factors
Surviving a bad interview
Orphan patient
Sore throat in children