When my toddler, Ethan, was just two years old, he choked on a blackberry in front of me. I watched in horror as he gasped for air, his eyes filled with fear. That terrifying moment remains etched in my mind, and I still worry about choking accidents with my children. The only way to alleviate that anxiety is to educate myself about choking.
During that alarming incident, I was paralyzed with fear. My partner, Jake, quickly realized what was happening. He turned Ethan over and attempted several firm back blows, which were ineffective. Then, he flipped Ethan back and managed to reach in and extract the blackberry. Hearing my child cry afterward was the greatest relief I could imagine.
Choking Injuries and Fatalities
Witnessing how easily choking can occur left me deeply unsettled, and I still feel the lingering effects of that day. According to the Department of Health, choking ranks as the fourth leading cause of unintentional death among children under five years old. I am incredibly thankful that our experience didn’t end tragically.
It’s vital to be aware that children under five are particularly vulnerable to choking hazards. Their tracheas are about the size of a straw’s diameter, making it easy to imagine how a blackberry could cause a blockage.
Freaking out won’t lessen the risk of choking, but being informed can.
Common Choking Hazards
Food is the leading cause of nonfatal choking incidents among children, with over 12,000 emergency room visits annually due to food-related choking injuries. Common choking hazards include round foods like whole grapes, cherry tomatoes, and hot dogs. Parents should also supervise snack foods such as popcorn, nuts, and various candies.
Pay attention to the size, shape, and consistency of foods. Items that clump together, like peanut butter, can be tricky, and certain foods that are sticky, slippery, or hard can cause choking. Foods shaped like spheres or those that can fit into a child’s airway, like raw peas, cheese cubes, and ice, can easily block airflow.
In addition to food, many household items and toys pose choking hazards. Young children often pick up random objects and put them in their mouths. It’s essential to monitor items labeled as choking hazards, including coins, small balls, and button batteries. Other risks include latex balloons, stuffing from bean bag chairs, and decorative items like tinsel.
Choking Risks in Other Groups
While children are at high risk for choking, they are not the only ones. Caregivers of the elderly or individuals with neurological disorders, or conditions that cause muscle degeneration, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease, should also be vigilant. The same choking hazards can apply to these populations.
Preventing Choking Incidents
This isn’t about instilling fear; it’s about empowering you with knowledge to prevent choking and prepare for emergencies. Arthur Lih, the founder of LifeVac, a life-saving device for choking situations, recommends a three-step approach: be aware, be trained, and be prepared.
Be Aware
Awareness is crucial for prevention. Understanding potential choking hazards, such as those mentioned above, is the first step. Cut food into small pieces, model safe eating behaviors, and avoid rushing meals. Supervise anyone at high risk and recognize the signs of choking. Often, a choking individual will cough continuously, but they may become unable to speak, cough, or breathe if their airway is blocked.
Be Trained
If someone is choking, it’s essential to call emergency services immediately. Caregivers must be knowledgeable about life-saving techniques like CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. You never want to find yourself helpless when a loved one is struggling to breathe. The American Red Cross offers training sessions nationwide.
Be Prepared
Unfortunately, methods like the Heimlich maneuver and CPR don’t always work. Consider having a de-chocking device on hand. If you decide to get one, consult your pediatrician about the best brands and practices for use.
I sincerely hope you never experience the horror of a loved one choking. I am sharing this not to frighten you but to help prevent panic in a similar situation. Use this as motivation to enhance your awareness, seek training, and equip yourself for choking emergencies. For further insights, you might find our related blog post on choking hazards helpful here.
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Summary
Choking is a serious risk, especially for young children and certain vulnerable populations. Educating yourself on choking hazards, being aware of risks, and knowing life-saving techniques can significantly reduce the likelihood of choking incidents. Preparation is key to handling emergencies effectively.
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